2009 BMW 525 vs. 1986 Caterham 1700
To start off, 2009 BMW 525 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Caterham 1700. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Caterham 1700 would be higher. At 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW 525 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 525 (215 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1986 Caterham 1700. (168 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 525 should accelerate faster than 1986 Caterham 1700.
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. 2009 BMW 525 has automatic transmission and 1986 Caterham 1700 has manual transmission. 1986 Caterham 1700 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 BMW 525 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 525 | 1986 Caterham 1700 | |
| Make | BMW | Caterham |
| Model | 525 | 1700 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 1692 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 245 km/hour | 188 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 3390 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1470 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1850 mm | 1050 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2260 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 36 L |
