1997 Caterham C21 vs. 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230
To start off, 1997 Caterham C21 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230 would be higher. At 2,307 cc (4 cylinders), 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Caterham C21 (138 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230. (109 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Caterham C21 should accelerate faster than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230 weights approximately 702 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, 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230 (185 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 32 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Caterham C21. (153 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Caterham C21.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Caterham C21 | 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230 | |
Make | Caterham | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | C21 | 230 |
Year Released | 1997 | 1976 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1588 cc | 2307 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 109 HP |
Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Torque | 153 Nm | 185 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 93.7 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 83.6 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 654 kg | 1356 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4730 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1790 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1450 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2800 mm |