1996 Caterham 7 vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 10 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 2,034 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz A (190 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 1996 Caterham 7. (138 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1996 Caterham 7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 797 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.
Because 1996 Caterham 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 1996 Caterham 7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz A (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 124 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Caterham 7. (156 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Caterham 7.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Caterham 7 | 2006 Mercedes-Benz A | |
Make | Caterham | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 7 | A |
Year Released | 1996 | 2006 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1588 cc | 2034 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 190 HP |
Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 156 Nm | 280 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
Top Speed | 203 km/hour | 227 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 478 kg | 1275 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 3840 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1600 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2570 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 36 L | 54 L |