1998 Caterham C21 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 14 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 5,500 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz E (518 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 403 more horse power than 1998 Caterham C21. (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1998 Caterham C21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 1202 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz E (699 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 553 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Caterham C21. (146 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Caterham C21. 2012 Mercedes-Benz E 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. 2012 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Caterham C21 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz E | |
Make | Caterham | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | C21 | E |
Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1588 cc | 5500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 115 HP | 518 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6800 RPM |
Torque | 146 Nm | 699 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1700 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 650 kg | 1852 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4887 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1872 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1443 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2875 mm |