2004 Caterham 7 vs. 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2004 Caterham 7 is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 2,778 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Caterham 7 (251 HP @ 8000 RPM) has 83 more horse power than 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL. (168 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 890 kg more than 2004 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, 2004 Caterham 7 (258 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL. (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2004 Caterham 7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
2004 Caterham 7 | 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Caterham | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 7 | SL |
Year Released | 2004 | 1971 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1997 cc | 2778 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 251 HP | 168 HP |
Engine RPM | 8000 RPM | 5750 RPM |
Torque | 258 Nm | 240 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 470 kg | 1360 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4290 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1310 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2410 mm |