1997 Caterham C21 vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz G
To start off, 1997 Caterham C21 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz G. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz G would be higher. At 3,199 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz G is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz G (217 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 79 more horse power than 1997 Caterham C21. (138 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz G should accelerate faster than 1997 Caterham C21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz G weights approximately 1496 kg more than 1997 Caterham C21. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Mercedes-Benz G is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Caterham C21. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz G will offer significantly more control. 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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz G (300 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 147 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Caterham C21. (153 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz G will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Caterham C21. 1996 Mercedes-Benz G has automatic transmission and 1997 Caterham C21 has manual transmission. 1997 Caterham C21 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Mercedes-Benz G will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Caterham C21 | 1996 Mercedes-Benz G | |
| Make | Caterham | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | C21 | G |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 3199 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 217 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 153 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 654 kg | 2150 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1940 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2860 mm |
