1997 Caterham C21 vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 7 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), 2004 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C (141 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1997 Caterham C21. (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1997 Caterham C21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 835 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C (220 Nm) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Caterham C21. (145 Nm). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Caterham C21.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Caterham C21 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Caterham | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | C21 | C |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1587 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 650 kg | 1485 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2720 mm |
