2001 Caterham Beaulieu vs. 1997 Mini MK VII
To start off, 2001 Caterham Beaulieu is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mini MK VII. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mini MK VII would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Caterham Beaulieu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Caterham Beaulieu (100 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1997 Mini MK VII. (96 HP @ 6130 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Caterham Beaulieu should accelerate faster than 1997 Mini MK VII. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mini MK VII weights approximately 210 kg more than 2001 Caterham Beaulieu.
Because 2001 Caterham Beaulieu is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2001 Caterham Beaulieu. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Mini MK VII, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2001 Caterham Beaulieu (136 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mini MK VII. (115 Nm @ 2650 RPM). This means 2001 Caterham Beaulieu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mini MK VII.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Caterham Beaulieu | 1997 Mini MK VII | |
| Make | Caterham | Mini |
| Model | Beaulieu | MK VII |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1275 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 96 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6130 RPM |
| Torque | 136 Nm | 115 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2650 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 525 kg | 735 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3390 mm | 3060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1450 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2040 mm |
