2006 BMW 323 vs. 2003 Caterham 7
To start off, 2006 BMW 323 is newer by 3 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 2,497 cc, 2006 BMW 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW 323 (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 2003 Caterham 7. (160 HP @ 7500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW 323 should accelerate faster than 2003 Caterham 7.
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. Let's talk about torque, 2006 BMW 323 (230 Nm) has 54 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Caterham 7. (176 Nm). This means 2006 BMW 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Caterham 7.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW 323 | 2003 Caterham 7 | |
| Make | BMW | Caterham |
| Model | 323 | 7 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 1794 cc |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 7500 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 176 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.8 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 89.3 mm |
| Top Speed | 229 km/hour | 209 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1580 mm |
