2000 Caterham 21 vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2000 Caterham 21. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2000 Caterham 21 would be higher. At 1,794 cc (4 cylinders), 2000 Caterham 21 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Caterham 21 (230 HP @ 8600 RPM) has 136 more horse power than 2004 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo. (94 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2000 Caterham 21 should accelerate faster than 2004 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo weights approximately 885 kg more than 2000 Caterham 21.
Because 2000 Caterham 21 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 2000 Caterham 21. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo, 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, 2000 Caterham 21 (210 Nm @ 7200 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo. (180 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2000 Caterham 21 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Caterham 21 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo | |
| Make | Caterham | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 21 | Vaneo |
| Year Released | 2000 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1794 cc | 1689 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 230 HP | 94 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8600 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 7200 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 80.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89.3 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 540 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2910 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 100 L | 54 L |
