2008 BMW 523 vs. 1994 Caterham Seven
To start off, 2008 BMW 523 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1994 Caterham Seven. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1994 Caterham Seven would be higher. At 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW 523 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 523 (175 HP) has 10 more horse power than 1994 Caterham Seven. (165 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 523 should accelerate faster than 1994 Caterham Seven. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 523 weights approximately 950 kg more than 1994 Caterham Seven. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2008 BMW 523 (230 Nm) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1994 Caterham Seven. (203 Nm). This means 2008 BMW 523 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1994 Caterham Seven.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 523 | 1994 Caterham Seven | |
| Make | BMW | Caterham |
| Model | 523 | Seven |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1994 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 1998 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 165 HP |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 540 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 3400 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1090 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2240 mm |
