2000 Caterham 7 vs. 1950 Mercury Roadster
To start off, 2000 Caterham 7 is newer by 50 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1950 Mercury Roadster. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1950 Mercury Roadster would be higher. At 3,990 cc (8 cylinders), 1950 Mercury Roadster is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Caterham 7 (230 HP @ 8600 RPM) has 122 more horse power than 1950 Mercury Roadster. (108 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2000 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 1950 Mercury Roadster. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1950 Mercury Roadster weights approximately 1090 kg more than 2000 Caterham 7.
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. 1950 Mercury Roadster has automatic transmission and 2000 Caterham 7 has manual transmission. 2000 Caterham 7 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1950 Mercury Roadster will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Caterham 7 | 1950 Mercury Roadster | |
| Make | Caterham | Mercury |
| Model | 7 | Roadster |
| Year Released | 2000 | 1950 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1795 cc | 3990 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 230 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8600 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 460 kg | 1550 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 5260 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2960 mm |
