2004 Caterham 7 vs. 2008 BMW 330
To start off, 2008 BMW 330 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Caterham 7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Caterham 7 would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW 330 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 330 (254 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 2004 Caterham 7. (251 HP @ 8000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 330 should accelerate faster than 2004 Caterham 7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 330 weights approximately 1246 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.
Because 2008 BMW 330 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2004 Caterham 7. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 BMW 330 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, 2008 BMW 330 (300 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Caterham 7. (258 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 330 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Caterham 7. 2008 BMW 330 has automatic transmission and 2004 Caterham 7 has manual transmission. 2004 Caterham 7 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 BMW 330 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Caterham 7 | 2008 BMW 330 | |
| Make | Caterham | BMW |
| Model | 7 | 330 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 251 HP | 254 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8000 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 258 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Top Speed | 241 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 470 kg | 1716 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 |
