2004 Caterham 7 vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK 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 6,208 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK (877 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 626 more horse power than 2004 Caterham 7. (251 HP @ 8000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK should accelerate faster than 2004 Caterham 7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 1288 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK (630 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 372 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Caterham 7. (258 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Caterham 7. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK 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. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Caterham 7 | 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK | |
| Make | Caterham | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 7 | CLK |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 6208 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 251 HP | 877 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8000 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 258 Nm | 630 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Top Speed | 241 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 470 kg | 1758 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1420 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2720 mm |
