2009 BMW X3 vs. 1991 Caterham Super 7
To start off, 2009 BMW X3 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Caterham Super 7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Caterham Super 7 would be higher. At 2,993 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW X3 (282 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 162 more horse power than 1991 Caterham Super 7. (120 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1991 Caterham Super 7.
Because 2009 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1991 Caterham Super 7. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 BMW X3 (580 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 437 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Caterham Super 7. (143 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2009 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Caterham Super 7. 2009 BMW X3 has automatic transmission and 1991 Caterham Super 7 has manual transmission. 1991 Caterham Super 7 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 BMW X3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW X3 | 1991 Caterham Super 7 | |
| Make | BMW | Caterham |
| Model | X3 | Super 7 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1991 |
| Body Type | SUV | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2993 cc | 1599 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 282 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 580 Nm | 143 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 240 km/hour | 180 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 3380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1110 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2240 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 36 L |
