1991 Caterham Super 7 vs. 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 10 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 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 182 more horse power than 1991 Caterham Super 7. (120 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1991 Caterham Super 7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 1335 kg more than 1991 Caterham Super 7. 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, 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 317 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Caterham Super 7. (143 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Caterham Super 7. 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL 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. 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1991 Caterham Super 7 | 2001 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Caterham | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Super 7 | SL |
Year Released | 1991 | 2001 |
Body Type | Roadster | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1599 cc | 4966 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 120 HP | 302 HP |
Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 143 Nm | 460 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 2700 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 97 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 77.6 mm | 84 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
Top Speed | 180 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 510 kg | 1845 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3380 mm | 4540 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2570 mm |