1991 Caterham Super 7 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 21 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 1,699 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz A (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1991 Caterham Super 7. (110 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1991 Caterham Super 7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 815 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, 2012 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz A (155 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Caterham Super 7. (132 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2012 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 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz A | |
Make | Caterham | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Super 7 | A |
Year Released | 1991 | 2012 |
Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1599 cc | 1699 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 110 HP | 114 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 132 Nm | 155 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 83.1 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 77.6 mm | 78.5 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
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 | 1325 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 | 60 L |