2004 Caterham 7 vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK GTR
To start off, 2004 Caterham 7 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK GTR. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK GTR would be higher. At 6,898 cc (12 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK GTR is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK GTR (604 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 353 more horse power than 2004 Caterham 7. (251 HP @ 8000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK GTR should accelerate faster than 2004 Caterham 7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK GTR weights approximately 795 kg more than 2004 Caterham 7. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK GTR (770 Nm @ 5250 RPM) has 512 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Caterham 7. (258 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK GTR will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Caterham 7.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Caterham 7 | 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK GTR | |
| Make | Caterham | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 7 | CLK GTR |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 6898 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 251 HP | 604 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8000 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 258 Nm | 770 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 470 kg | 1265 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1960 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1110 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2680 mm |
