2003 Caterham 7 vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz R
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz R is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Caterham 7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Caterham 7 would be higher. At 2,987 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz R is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz R (221 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 2003 Caterham 7. (200 HP @ 7500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz R should accelerate faster than 2003 Caterham 7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz R weights approximately 1780 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.
Because 2006 Mercedes-Benz R is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Caterham 7. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz R 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz R (511 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 301 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Caterham 7. (210 Nm @ 5750 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz R will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Caterham 7. 2006 Mercedes-Benz R has automatic transmission and 2003 Caterham 7 has manual transmission. 2003 Caterham 7 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Mercedes-Benz R will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Caterham 7 | 2006 Mercedes-Benz R | |
Make | Caterham | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 7 | R |
Year Released | 2003 | 2006 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2987 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 200 HP | 221 HP |
Engine RPM | 7500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Torque | 210 Nm | 511 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5750 RPM | 1600 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 80.1 mm | 83 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 89.3 mm | 92 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 6 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 490 kg | 2270 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 5160 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1930 mm |
Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1660 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 3220 mm |