1997 Caterham C21 vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S 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 4,266 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (275 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1997 Caterham C21. (250 HP @ 8000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1997 Caterham C21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 1205 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 S (401 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 149 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Caterham C21. (252 Nm @ 5750 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Caterham C21. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S 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. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Caterham C21 | 2002 Mercedes-Benz S | |
Make | Caterham | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | C21 | S |
Year Released | 1997 | 2002 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1998 cc | 4266 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 250 HP | 275 HP |
Engine RPM | 8000 RPM | 5750 RPM |
Torque | 252 Nm | 401 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Vehicle Weight | 690 kg | 1895 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 5170 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1860 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1450 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 3090 mm |