2003 Caterham 7 vs. 1999 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2003 Caterham 7 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 2,799 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Mercedes-Benz SL (190 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 2003 Caterham 7. (160 HP @ 7500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2003 Caterham 7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 1260 kg more than 2003 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, 1999 Mercedes-Benz SL (271 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Caterham 7. (176 Nm @ 5750 RPM). This means 1999 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Caterham 7.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Caterham 7 | 1999 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Caterham | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 7 | SL |
Year Released | 2003 | 1999 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1794 cc | 2799 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 160 HP | 190 HP |
Engine RPM | 7500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 176 Nm | 271 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5750 RPM | 3750 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 89.9 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 89.3 mm | 73.5 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 500 kg | 1760 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4470 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2520 mm |