1997 Caterham C21 vs. 2013 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2013 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 16 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 6,000 cc (12 cylinders), 2013 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Mercedes-Benz S (613 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 363 more horse power than 1997 Caterham C21. (250 HP @ 8000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1997 Caterham C21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 1585 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, 2013 Mercedes-Benz S (1,001 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 749 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Caterham C21. (252 Nm @ 5750 RPM). This means 2013 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Caterham C21.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Caterham C21 | 2013 Mercedes-Benz S | |
Make | Caterham | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | C21 | S |
Year Released | 1997 | 2013 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1998 cc | 6000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 6 valves |
Horse Power | 250 HP | 613 HP |
Engine RPM | 8000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
Torque | 252 Nm | 1001 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5750 RPM | 4300 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | CVT |
Vehicle Weight | 690 kg | 2275 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 5252 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 2120 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1488 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 3165 mm |