2004 Caterham 7 vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 5 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 2,261 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Caterham 7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Caterham 7 (200 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 92 more horse power than 2009 Mercedes-Benz A. (108 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 2009 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 2290 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, 2009 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz A (250 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Caterham 7. (224 Nm @ 5750 RPM). This means 2009 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 | 2009 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Caterham | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 7 | A |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2261 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 224 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5750 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 540 kg | 2830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3310 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2570 mm |
