2000 Caterham C21 vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2000 Caterham C21 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz SLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz SLK would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SLK (134 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 2000 Caterham C21. (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 2000 Caterham C21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 620 kg more than 2000 Caterham C21. 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, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SLK (190 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Caterham C21. (145 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Caterham C21.
Compare all specifications:
2000 Caterham C21 | 1997 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
Make | Caterham | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | C21 | SLK |
Year Released | 2000 | 1997 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1998 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 115 HP | 134 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 145 Nm | 190 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 89.9 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 78.7 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.4:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 650 kg | 1270 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4000 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1280 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2410 mm |