1991 Caterham Super 7 vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2,148 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (168 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 1991 Caterham Super 7. (110 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1991 Caterham Super 7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 1120 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 268 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Caterham Super 7. (132 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz C 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 C | |
| Make | Caterham | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Super 7 | C |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1599 cc | 2148 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 132 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 88.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.6 mm | 88.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 17.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 510 kg | 1630 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3380 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 36 L | 66 L |
