2003 Caterham 7 vs. 2009 BMW 325
To start off, 2009 BMW 325 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Caterham 7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Caterham 7 would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW 325 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 325 (215 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 2003 Caterham 7. (160 HP @ 7500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 325 should accelerate faster than 2003 Caterham 7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 325 weights approximately 1175 kg more than 2003 Caterham 7. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 BMW 325 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Caterham 7. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 BMW 325 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, 2009 BMW 325 (250 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Caterham 7. (176 Nm @ 5750 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 325 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Caterham 7. 2009 BMW 325 has automatic transmission and 2003 Caterham 7 has manual transmission. 2003 Caterham 7 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 BMW 325 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Caterham 7 | 2009 BMW 325 | |
| Make | Caterham | BMW |
| Model | 7 | 325 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1794 cc | 2494 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5750 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89.3 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Top Speed | 209 km/hour | 240 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 500 kg | 1675 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2770 mm |
