1997 Caterham C21 vs. 1961 Mercedes-Benz SE
To start off, 1997 Caterham C21 is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Mercedes-Benz SE. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Mercedes-Benz SE would be higher. At 2,193 cc (6 cylinders), 1961 Mercedes-Benz SE is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Caterham C21 (250 HP @ 8000 RPM) has 132 more horse power than 1961 Mercedes-Benz SE. (118 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Caterham C21 should accelerate faster than 1961 Mercedes-Benz SE. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 Mercedes-Benz SE weights approximately 830 kg more than 1997 Caterham C21.
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, 1997 Caterham C21 (252 Nm @ 5750 RPM) has 63 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Mercedes-Benz SE. (189 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 1997 Caterham C21 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Mercedes-Benz SE.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Caterham C21 | 1961 Mercedes-Benz SE | |
Make | Caterham | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | C21 | SE |
Year Released | 1997 | 1961 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2193 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 250 HP | 118 HP |
Engine RPM | 8000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Torque | 252 Nm | 189 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5750 RPM | 3900 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Vehicle Weight | 690 kg | 1520 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4880 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1800 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1450 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2760 mm |