1997 Caterham C21 vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 14 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 2,143 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Caterham C21 (138 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 2011 Mercedes-Benz C. (136 HP @ 2800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Caterham C21 should accelerate faster than 2011 Mercedes-Benz C.
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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz C (360 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 207 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Caterham C21. (153 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Caterham C21. 2011 Mercedes-Benz C 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. 2011 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Caterham C21 | 2011 Mercedes-Benz C | |
Make | Caterham | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | C21 | C |
Year Released | 1997 | 2011 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1588 cc | 2143 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 136 HP |
Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
Torque | 153 Nm | 360 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 1600 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 16.2:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4606 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1459 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2760 mm |