1998 Caterham C21 vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz B
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz B is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Caterham C21. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Caterham C21 would be higher. At 1,991 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz B is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz B (138 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1998 Caterham C21. (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz B should accelerate faster than 1998 Caterham C21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz B weights approximately 720 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.
Because 1998 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 1998 Caterham C21. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz B, 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz B (300 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 154 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Caterham C21. (146 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz B will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Caterham C21. 2008 Mercedes-Benz B has automatic transmission and 1998 Caterham C21 has manual transmission. 1998 Caterham C21 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz B will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Caterham C21 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz B | |
| Make | Caterham | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | C21 | B |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 92 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 650 kg | 1370 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2780 mm |
