1996 Caterham 7 vs. 1957 Mercedes-Benz 190
To start off, 1996 Caterham 7 is newer by 39 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1957 Mercedes-Benz 190. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1957 Mercedes-Benz 190 would be higher. At 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 1957 Mercedes-Benz 190 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Caterham 7 (138 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1957 Mercedes-Benz 190. (104 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 1957 Mercedes-Benz 190. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1957 Mercedes-Benz 190 weights approximately 682 kg more than 1996 Caterham 7.
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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Caterham 7 | 1957 Mercedes-Benz 190 | |
| Make | Caterham | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 7 | 190 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1957 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 478 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2410 mm |
