1997 Caterham C21 vs. 1964 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 1997 Caterham C21 is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1964 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1964 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 2,306 cc (6 cylinders), 1964 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Caterham C21 (250 HP @ 8000 RPM) has 102 more horse power than 1964 Mercedes-Benz SL. (148 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Caterham C21 should accelerate faster than 1964 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1964 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 612 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 56 more torque (in Nm) than 1964 Mercedes-Benz SL. (196 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1997 Caterham C21 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1964 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Caterham C21 | 1964 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Caterham | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | C21 | SL |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1964 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2306 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 250 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 252 Nm | 196 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5750 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 690 kg | 1302 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2410 mm |
