1996 Caterham 7 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 16 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), 2012 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Caterham 7 (138 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 2012 Mercedes-Benz A. (134 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 2012 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 2352 kg more than 1996 Caterham 7.
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, 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 (185 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Caterham 7. (156 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2012 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 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz A | |
Make | Caterham | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 7 | A |
Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
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 | 134 HP |
Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5750 RPM |
Torque | 156 Nm | 185 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 11.0:1 |
Top Speed | 203 km/hour | 200 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 478 kg | 2830 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 | 60 L |