1997 Caterham C21 vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 11 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 2,148 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C (121 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 1997 Caterham C21. (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1997 Caterham C21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 905 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C (270 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 125 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Caterham C21. (145 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 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 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz C | |
Make | Caterham | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | C21 | C |
Year Released | 1997 | 2008 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1587 cc | 2148 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 115 HP | 121 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
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 | 1555 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4550 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2720 mm |