1997 Caterham C21 vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz Viano
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz Viano is newer by 9 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 2,146 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz Viano is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Caterham C21 (115 HP) has 7 more horse power than 2006 Mercedes-Benz Viano. (108 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Caterham C21 should accelerate faster than 2006 Mercedes-Benz Viano. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz Viano weights approximately 1390 kg more than 1997 Caterham C21.
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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz Viano (270 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 125 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Caterham C21. (145 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz Viano will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Caterham C21.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Caterham C21 | 2006 Mercedes-Benz Viano | |
| Make | Caterham | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | C21 | Viano |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1587 cc | 2146 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 108 HP |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 88.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 650 kg | 2040 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 5230 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1880 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 3210 mm |
