1997 Caterham C21 vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 6 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 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Caterham C21 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Caterham C21 (138 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 2003 Mercedes-Benz A. (80 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Caterham C21 should accelerate faster than 2003 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 366 kg more than 1997 Caterham C21.
Because 1997 Caterham C21 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1997 Caterham C21. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz A, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1997 Caterham C21 (153 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mercedes-Benz A. (130 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1997 Caterham C21 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Caterham C21 | 2003 Mercedes-Benz A | |
Make | Caterham | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | C21 | A |
Year Released | 1997 | 2003 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1397 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 80 HP |
Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 153 Nm | 130 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 80 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 69.5 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 11.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 654 kg | 1020 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 3790 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1590 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2600 mm |