2004 Caterham 7 vs. 2010 Mercedes-Benz R
To start off, 2010 Mercedes-Benz R is newer by 6 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 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2010 Mercedes-Benz R is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Caterham 7 (251 HP @ 8000 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 2010 Mercedes-Benz R. (210 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 2010 Mercedes-Benz R. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Mercedes-Benz R weights approximately 1840 kg more than 2004 Caterham 7.
Because 2010 Mercedes-Benz R is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2004 Caterham 7. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2010 Mercedes-Benz R will offer significantly more control. 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, 2010 Mercedes-Benz R (542 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 284 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Caterham 7. (258 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2010 Mercedes-Benz R will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Caterham 7. 2010 Mercedes-Benz R 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. 2010 Mercedes-Benz R will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Caterham 7 | 2010 Mercedes-Benz R | |
| Make | Caterham | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 7 | R |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2010 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 251 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 258 Nm | 542 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 6 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 470 kg | 2310 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 5156 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1958 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1661 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 3216 mm |
