2007 BMW X3 vs. 2004 Caterham 7
To start off, 2007 BMW X3 is newer by 3 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 2,979 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Caterham 7 (251 HP @ 8000 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 2007 BMW X3. (228 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 2007 BMW X3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 BMW X3 weights approximately 1300 kg more than 2004 Caterham 7.
Because 2007 BMW X3 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, 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 (300 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Caterham 7. (258 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2007 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Caterham 7. 2007 BMW X3 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. 2007 BMW X3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 BMW X3 | 2004 Caterham 7 | |
| Make | BMW | Caterham |
| Model | X3 | 7 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2979 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 251 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 8000 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 258 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Top Speed | 210 km/hour | 241 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1770 kg | 470 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 3110 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1860 mm | 810 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2230 mm |
