2004 Caterham 7 vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (269 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 2004 Caterham 7. (251 HP @ 8000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2004 Caterham 7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 1355 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 92 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Caterham 7. (258 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Caterham 7. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Caterham 7 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Caterham | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 7 | SL |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 251 HP | 269 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 258 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Top Speed | 241 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 470 kg | 1825 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2570 mm |
