2000 Caterham 7 vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK is newer by 5 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 4,964 cc, 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK (355 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 185 more horse power than 2000 Caterham 7. (170 HP @ 10750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK should accelerate faster than 2000 Caterham 7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 1275 kg more than 2000 Caterham 7. 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 335 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Caterham 7. (125 Nm @ 8250 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Caterham 7. 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK 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. 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Caterham 7 | 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK | |
| Make | Caterham | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 7 | CLK |
| Year Released | 2000 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1137 cc | 4964 cc |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 355 HP |
| Engine RPM | 10750 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 125 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 8250 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 58 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 440 kg | 1715 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2720 mm |
