1999 BMW M5 vs. 2004 Caterham 7
To start off, 2004 Caterham 7 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 BMW M5. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 BMW M5 would be higher. At 4,900 cc (8 cylinders), 1999 BMW M5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 BMW M5 (401 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 150 more horse power than 2004 Caterham 7. (251 HP @ 8000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 BMW M5 should accelerate faster than 2004 Caterham 7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 BMW M5 weights approximately 1140 kg more than 2004 Caterham 7. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1999 BMW M5 (499 Nm) has 241 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Caterham 7. (258 Nm). This means 1999 BMW M5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Caterham 7.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 BMW M5 | 2004 Caterham 7 | |
| Make | BMW | Caterham |
| Model | M5 | 7 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4900 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 401 HP | 251 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 8000 RPM |
| Torque | 499 Nm | 258 Nm |
| Top Speed | 295 km/hour | 241 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 470 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 3110 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 810 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2230 mm |
