2004 Caterham 7 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML 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 5,461 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML (518 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 318 more horse power than 2004 Caterham 7. (200 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 2004 Caterham 7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 1805 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.
Because 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML (699 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 475 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Caterham 7. (224 Nm @ 5750 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Caterham 7. 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML 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. 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Caterham 7 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
| Make | Caterham | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 7 | ML |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2261 cc | 5461 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 518 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 224 Nm | 699 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5750 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 540 kg | 2345 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3310 mm | 4803 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 2141 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1796 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2916 mm |
