1998 Caterham C21 vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 13 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 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL (311 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 196 more horse power than 1998 Caterham C21. (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1998 Caterham C21.
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 SL (360 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 214 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Caterham C21. (146 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Caterham C21. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL 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. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Caterham C21 | 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Caterham | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | C21 | SL |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 311 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 360 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4582 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1298 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2560 mm |
