1997 Caterham C21 vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Caterham C21. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Caterham C21 would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz E (161 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1997 Caterham C21. (138 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1997 Caterham C21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 916 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.
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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz E (240 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 87 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Caterham C21. (153 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Caterham C21.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Caterham C21 | 2002 Mercedes-Benz E | |
Make | Caterham | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | C21 | E |
Year Released | 1997 | 2002 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1796 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 161 HP |
Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 153 Nm | 240 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 654 kg | 1570 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4820 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1830 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2860 mm |