2004 Caterham 7 vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS 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 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS (305 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 105 more horse power than 2004 Caterham 7. (200 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS should accelerate faster than 2004 Caterham 7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS weights approximately 1195 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS (370 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 146 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Caterham 7. (224 Nm @ 5750 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Caterham 7. 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS 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. 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2004 Caterham 7 | 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS | |
Make | Caterham | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 7 | CLS |
Year Released | 2004 | 2011 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2261 cc | 3498 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 200 HP | 305 HP |
Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Torque | 224 Nm | 370 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5750 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 540 kg | 1735 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3310 mm | 4940 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1882 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1417 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2875 mm |