2003 Caterham 7 vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 5 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 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 1035 kg more than 2003 Caterham 7.
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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C (240 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 64 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Caterham 7. (176 Nm @ 5750 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Caterham 7.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Caterham 7 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Caterham | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 7 | C |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1794 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89.3 mm | 85 mm |
| Top Speed | 209 km/hour | 234 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 500 kg | 1535 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1470 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1730 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2720 mm |
