2006 BMW M3 vs. 1986 Caterham 1700
To start off, 2006 BMW M3 is newer by 20 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 3,245 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW M3 (338 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 170 more horse power than 1986 Caterham 1700. (168 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1986 Caterham 1700.
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.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW M3 | 1986 Caterham 1700 | |
| Make | BMW | Caterham |
| Model | M3 | 1700 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3245 cc | 1692 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 338 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 188 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 3390 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1050 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2260 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 36 L |
