1996 Caterham 7 vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 12 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 2,985 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 1122 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. Let's talk about torque, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C (510 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 354 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Caterham 7. (156 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Caterham 7. 2008 Mercedes-Benz C 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. 2008 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Caterham 7 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Caterham | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 7 | C |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 2985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 156 Nm | 510 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 1400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 17.7:1 |
| Top Speed | 203 km/hour | 241 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 478 kg | 1600 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1730 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 36 L | 62 L |
