1991 Caterham Super 7 vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz A 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 1,991 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz A (138 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1991 Caterham Super 7. (120 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1991 Caterham Super 7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 855 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.
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, 2009 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz A (300 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 157 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Caterham Super 7. (143 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz A 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 | 2009 Mercedes-Benz A | |
Make | Caterham | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Super 7 | A |
Year Released | 1991 | 2009 |
Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1599 cc | 1991 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 120 HP | 138 HP |
Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Torque | 143 Nm | 300 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 1600 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 18.0:1 |
Top Speed | 180 km/hour | 196 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 510 kg | 1365 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3380 mm | 3840 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1600 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2570 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 36 L | 54 L |