1997 Caterham C21 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 15 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Caterham C21 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Caterham C21 (250 HP @ 8000 RPM) has 142 more horse power than 2012 Mercedes-Benz A. (108 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Caterham C21 should accelerate faster than 2012 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 2140 kg more than 1997 Caterham C21.
Because 1997 Caterham C21 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1997 Caterham C21. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz A, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1997 Caterham C21 (252 Nm @ 5750 RPM) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mercedes-Benz A. (250 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 1997 Caterham C21 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Caterham C21 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Caterham | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | C21 | A |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 250 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 252 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5750 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 690 kg | 2830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2570 mm |
