2003 BMW X5 vs. 1997 Caterham C21
To start off, 2003 BMW X5 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Caterham C21. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Caterham C21 would be higher. At 4,398 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 BMW X5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW X5 (338 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 223 more horse power than 1997 Caterham C21. (115 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW X5 should accelerate faster than 1997 Caterham C21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW X5 weights approximately 1545 kg more than 1997 Caterham C21. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 BMW X5 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Caterham C21. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 BMW X5 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2003 BMW X5 (400 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 255 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Caterham C21. (145 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 BMW X5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Caterham C21. 2003 BMW X5 has automatic transmission and 1997 Caterham C21 has manual transmission. 1997 Caterham C21 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 BMW X5 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW X5 | 1997 Caterham C21 | |
| Make | BMW | Caterham |
| Model | X5 | C21 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4398 cc | 1587 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 338 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.7 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 2195 kg | 650 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 3810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1720 mm | 1060 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2260 mm |
