2008 BMW X3 vs. 2004 Caterham 7
To start off, 2008 BMW X3 is newer by 4 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 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Caterham 7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Caterham 7 (251 HP @ 8000 RPM) has 89 more horse power than 2008 BMW X3. (162 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW X3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW X3 weights approximately 1270 kg more than 2004 Caterham 7.
Because 2008 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, 2008 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, 2008 BMW X3 (330 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 72 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Caterham 7. (258 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Caterham 7.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW X3 | 2004 Caterham 7 | |
| Make | BMW | Caterham |
| Model | X3 | 7 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 162 HP | 251 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 8000 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 258 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Top Speed | 215 km/hour | 241 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1740 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 |
