2004 Caterham 7 vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz B
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz B is newer by 7 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 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Caterham 7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Caterham 7 (251 HP @ 8000 RPM) has 113 more horse power than 2011 Mercedes-Benz B. (138 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 2011 Mercedes-Benz B. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz B weights approximately 965 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz B, 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz B (300 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Caterham 7. (258 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz B will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Caterham 7.
Compare all specifications:
2004 Caterham 7 | 2011 Mercedes-Benz B | |
Make | Caterham | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 7 | B |
Year Released | 2004 | 2011 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1997 cc | 1989 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 251 HP | 138 HP |
Engine RPM | 8000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Torque | 258 Nm | 300 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1600 RPM |
Top Speed | 241 km/hour | 200 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 470 kg | 1435 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4280 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1610 mm |
Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1780 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2780 mm |