1998 Caterham C21 vs. 1986 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 1998 Caterham C21 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,962 cc (6 cylinders), 1986 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Mercedes-Benz S (185 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 1998 Caterham C21. (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1998 Caterham C21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 900 kg more than 1998 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, 1986 Mercedes-Benz S (260 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 114 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Caterham C21. (146 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1986 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Caterham C21.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Caterham C21 | 1986 Mercedes-Benz S | |
Make | Caterham | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | C21 | S |
Year Released | 1998 | 1986 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1588 cc | 2962 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 115 HP | 185 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
Torque | 146 Nm | 260 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 650 kg | 1550 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 5030 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1830 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2950 mm |