2004 Caterham 7 vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Caterham 7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Caterham 7 would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Caterham 7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Caterham 7 (251 HP @ 8000 RPM) has 110 more horse power than 2005 Mercedes-Benz C. (141 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 2005 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 975 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz C. (240 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2004 Caterham 7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mercedes-Benz C.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Caterham 7 | 2005 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Caterham | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 7 | C |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 251 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8000 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 258 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 470 kg | 1445 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2720 mm |
