2007 BMW X5 vs. 1996 Caterham 7
To start off, 2007 BMW X5 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 2,979 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 BMW X5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 BMW X5 (228 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 90 more horse power than 1996 Caterham 7. (138 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 BMW X5 should accelerate faster than 1996 Caterham 7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 BMW X5 weights approximately 1602 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 X5 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 X5 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 X5 (300 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 144 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Caterham 7. (156 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2007 BMW X5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Caterham 7.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 BMW X5 | 1996 Caterham 7 | |
| Make | BMW | Caterham |
| Model | X5 | 7 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2979 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 156 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 205 km/hour | 203 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 2080 kg | 478 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 3110 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1880 mm | 810 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2240 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 36 L |
