2003 BMW 318 vs. 1986 Caterham 1700
To start off, 2003 BMW 318 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Caterham 1700. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Caterham 1700 would be higher. At 1,994 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Caterham 1700 (168 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 2003 BMW 318. (141 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Caterham 1700 should accelerate faster than 2003 BMW 318.
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. 2003 BMW 318 has automatic transmission and 1986 Caterham 1700 has manual transmission. 1986 Caterham 1700 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 BMW 318 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW 318 | 1986 Caterham 1700 | |
| Make | BMW | Caterham |
| Model | 318 | 1700 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1994 cc | 1692 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 211 km/hour | 188 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 3390 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1050 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2260 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 36 L |
