2004 Caterham 7 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 8 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 137 more horse power than 2012 Mercedes-Benz A. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 2012 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 2362 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, 2012 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, 2004 Caterham 7 (258 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 103 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mercedes-Benz A. (155 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2004 Caterham 7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
2004 Caterham 7 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz A | |
Make | Caterham | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 7 | A |
Year Released | 2004 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1997 cc | 1699 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 251 HP | 114 HP |
Engine RPM | 8000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 258 Nm | 155 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Top Speed | 241 km/hour | 188 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 470 kg | 2832 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 3840 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1600 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2570 mm |