1991 Caterham Super 7 vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo is newer by 12 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 1,689 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Caterham Super 7 (120 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 2003 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo. (90 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1991 Caterham Super 7 should accelerate faster than 2003 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo weights approximately 955 kg more than 1991 Caterham Super 7.
Because 1991 Caterham Super 7 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1991 Caterham Super 7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo (185 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Caterham Super 7. (143 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Caterham Super 7.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Caterham Super 7 | 2003 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo | |
| Make | Caterham | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Super 7 | Vaneo |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1599 cc | 1689 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 143 Nm | 185 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 80.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.6 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 510 kg | 1465 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3380 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1840 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 36 L | 54 L |
