2008 BMW M5 vs. 2000 Caterham C21
To start off, 2008 BMW M5 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2000 Caterham C21. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2000 Caterham C21 would be higher. At 4,999 cc (10 cylinders), 2008 BMW M5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW M5 (500 HP @ 7750 RPM) has 385 more horse power than 2000 Caterham C21. (115 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW M5 should accelerate faster than 2000 Caterham C21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW M5 weights approximately 1105 kg more than 2000 Caterham C21. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 BMW M5 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2000 Caterham C21. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 BMW M5 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, 2008 BMW M5 (519 Nm @ 6100 RPM) has 374 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Caterham C21. (145 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 BMW M5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Caterham C21.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW M5 | 2000 Caterham C21 | |
| Make | BMW | Caterham |
| Model | M5 | C21 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2000 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4999 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 10 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 500 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7750 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 519 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 6100 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1755 kg | 650 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 3810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1060 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2260 mm |
