2004 Caterham 7 vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 4 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 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 1295 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E (700 Nm @ 2650 RPM) has 476 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Caterham 7. (224 Nm @ 5750 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Caterham 7. 2008 Mercedes-Benz E has automatic transmission and 2004 Caterham 7 has manual transmission. 2004 Caterham 7 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Caterham 7 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Caterham | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 7 | E |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2261 cc | 5439 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 224 Nm | 700 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5750 RPM | 2650 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.6 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 92 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 540 kg | 1835 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3310 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1500 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1830 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2860 mm |
