1997 Caterham C21 vs. 1970 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 1997 Caterham C21 is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Mercedes-Benz 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Mercedes-Benz 280 would be higher. At 2,778 cc (6 cylinders), 1970 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1970 Mercedes-Benz 280 (180 HP) has 42 more horse power than 1997 Caterham C21. (138 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1970 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster 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, 1970 Mercedes-Benz 280 (258 Nm) has 105 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Caterham C21. (153 Nm). This means 1970 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Caterham C21.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Caterham C21 | 1970 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | Caterham | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | C21 | 280 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1970 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 2778 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 180 HP |
| Torque | 153 Nm | 258 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 86.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 78.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2410 mm |
