1996 Caterham 7 vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Caterham 7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Caterham 7 would be higher. At 4,964 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK (302 HP @ 2700 RPM) has 164 more horse power than 1996 Caterham 7. (138 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK should accelerate faster than 1996 Caterham 7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 1182 kg more than 1996 Caterham 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 304 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Caterham 7. (156 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Caterham 7. 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK has automatic transmission and 1996 Caterham 7 has manual transmission. 1996 Caterham 7 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Caterham 7 | 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK | |
| Make | Caterham | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 7 | CLK |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 4964 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Torque | 156 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 203 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 478 kg | 1660 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 36 L | 62 L |
