2000 Caterham C21 vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2000 Caterham C21. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2000 Caterham C21 would be higher. At 2,084 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz A (138 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 2000 Caterham C21. (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 2000 Caterham C21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 515 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.
Because 2000 Caterham C21 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 C21. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz A, 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz A (205 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Caterham C21. (145 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Caterham C21.
Compare all specifications:
2000 Caterham C21 | 2002 Mercedes-Benz A | |
Make | Caterham | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | C21 | A |
Year Released | 2000 | 2002 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1588 cc | 2084 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 115 HP | 138 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 145 Nm | 205 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 11.0:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 650 kg | 1165 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 3650 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1590 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2430 mm |