2004 Caterham 7 vs. 1975 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2004 Caterham 7 is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1975 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Caterham 7 (251 HP @ 8000 RPM) has 93 more horse power than 1975 Mercedes-Benz S. (158 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 1975 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1975 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 1140 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 31 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Mercedes-Benz S. (227 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Caterham 7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Caterham 7 | 1975 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Caterham | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 7 | S |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1975 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 2746 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 251 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 258 Nm | 227 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 470 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2870 mm |
