2003 Caterham 7 vs. 2010 Mercedes-Benz ML
To start off, 2010 Mercedes-Benz ML is newer by 7 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 5,500 cc (8 cylinders), 2010 Mercedes-Benz ML is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Mercedes-Benz ML (382 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 222 more horse power than 2003 Caterham 7. (160 HP @ 7500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 2003 Caterham 7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 1675 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 2010 Mercedes-Benz ML is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Caterham 7. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2010 Mercedes-Benz ML 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, 2010 Mercedes-Benz ML (530 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 354 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Caterham 7. (176 Nm @ 5750 RPM). This means 2010 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Caterham 7. 2010 Mercedes-Benz ML 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. 2010 Mercedes-Benz ML will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Caterham 7 | 2010 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
| Make | Caterham | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 7 | ML |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2010 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1794 cc | 5500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 382 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 530 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5750 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 500 kg | 2175 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1816 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2913 mm |
