2000 Caterham 7 vs. 1984 Mercedes-Benz 300
To start off, 2000 Caterham 7 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 2,998 cc (5 cylinders), 1984 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Caterham 7 (170 HP) has 45 more horse power than 1984 Mercedes-Benz 300. (125 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2000 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 1984 Mercedes-Benz 300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1984 Mercedes-Benz 300 weights approximately 970 kg more than 2000 Caterham 7.
Because 2000 Caterham 7 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 7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1984 Mercedes-Benz 300, 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, 1984 Mercedes-Benz 300 (245 Nm) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Caterham 7. (125 Nm). This means 1984 Mercedes-Benz 300 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Caterham 7.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Caterham 7 | 1984 Mercedes-Benz 300 | |
| Make | Caterham | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 7 | 300 |
| Year Released | 2000 | 1984 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1137 cc | 2998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 125 HP |
| Torque | 125 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 90.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 58 mm | 92.5 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 440 kg | 1410 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1010 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2800 mm |
