1997 Caterham C21 vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S 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 5,441 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S (494 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 356 more horse power than 1997 Caterham C21. (138 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1997 Caterham C21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 1296 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 S (700 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 547 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Caterham C21. (153 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz S 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 S | |
Make | Caterham | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | C21 | S |
Year Released | 1997 | 2004 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1588 cc | 5441 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 494 HP |
Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Torque | 153 Nm | 700 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2750 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 97 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 92 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 654 kg | 1950 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 5170 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1860 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 3090 mm |