1991 Caterham Super 7 vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 13 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 1,599 cc (4 cylinders), 1991 Caterham Super 7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Caterham Super 7 (120 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 2004 Mercedes-Benz A. (80 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1991 Caterham Super 7 should accelerate faster than 2004 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 510 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz A, 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, 1991 Caterham Super 7 (143 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mercedes-Benz A. (130 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1991 Caterham Super 7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Caterham Super 7 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Caterham | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Super 7 | A |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1599 cc | 1397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 80 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 143 Nm | 130 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.6 mm | 69.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 510 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3380 mm | 3790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2600 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 36 L | 54 L |
