1997 Caterham C21 vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CL
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CL 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 5,461 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz CL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CL (383 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 133 more horse power than 1997 Caterham C21. (250 HP @ 8000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CL should accelerate faster than 1997 Caterham C21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CL weights approximately 1305 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 CL (531 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 279 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Caterham C21. (252 Nm @ 5750 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz CL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Caterham C21. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CL has automatic transmission and 1997 Caterham C21 has manual transmission. 1997 Caterham C21 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Caterham C21 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz CL | |
| Make | Caterham | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | C21 | CL |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 5461 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 250 HP | 383 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 252 Nm | 531 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5750 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 690 kg | 1995 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 5070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2960 mm |
