2000 Caterham 7 vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2000 Caterham 7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2000 Caterham 7 would be higher. At 3,199 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Caterham 7 (230 HP @ 8600 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 2004 Mercedes-Benz C. (215 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2000 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 2004 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 1240 kg more than 2000 Caterham 7.
Because 2004 Mercedes-Benz C is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2000 Caterham 7. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C will offer significantly more control. 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C (310 Nm) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Caterham 7. (210 Nm). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Caterham 7. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C 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. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Caterham 7 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Caterham | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 7 | C |
| Year Released | 2000 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1795 cc | 3199 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 230 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8600 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89.3 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 460 kg | 1700 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2970 mm |
