2007 BMW X3 vs. 1996 Caterham 7
To start off, 2007 BMW X3 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Caterham 7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Caterham 7 would be higher. At 2,993 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 BMW X3 (283 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 145 more horse power than 1996 Caterham 7. (138 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Caterham 7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 BMW X3 weights approximately 1472 kg more than 1996 Caterham 7. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2007 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Caterham 7. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 BMW X3 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, 2007 BMW X3 (580 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 424 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Caterham 7. (156 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2007 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Caterham 7. 2007 BMW X3 has automatic transmission and 1996 Caterham 7 has manual transmission. 1996 Caterham 7 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 BMW X3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 BMW X3 | 1996 Caterham 7 | |
| Make | BMW | Caterham |
| Model | X3 | 7 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2993 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 283 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 580 Nm | 156 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 240 km/hour | 203 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1950 kg | 478 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 3110 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 810 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2240 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 36 L |
