1997 Caterham C21 vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 12 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 2,996 cc, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Caterham C21 (250 HP @ 8000 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. (228 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Caterham C21 should accelerate faster than 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 865 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (301 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Caterham C21. (252 Nm @ 5750 RPM). This means 2009 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 | 2009 Mercedes-Benz C | |
Make | Caterham | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | C21 | C |
Year Released | 1997 | 2009 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2996 cc |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 250 HP | 228 HP |
Engine RPM | 8000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 252 Nm | 301 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5750 RPM | 2500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 690 kg | 1555 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4630 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1750 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1400 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2770 mm |