2004 Caterham 7 vs. 2007 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2007 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 3 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 2,034 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Caterham 7 (251 HP @ 8000 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 2007 Mercedes-Benz A. (190 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 2007 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 805 kg more than 2004 Caterham 7.
Because 2004 Caterham 7 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2004 Caterham 7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 Mercedes-Benz A, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2007 Mercedes-Benz A (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Caterham 7. (258 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2007 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Caterham 7.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Caterham 7 | 2007 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Caterham | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 7 | A |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 2034 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 251 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 258 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Top Speed | 241 km/hour | 227 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 470 kg | 1275 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2570 mm |
