1997 Caterham C21 vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Caterham C21. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Caterham C21 would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C (269 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1997 Caterham C21. (250 HP @ 8000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1997 Caterham C21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 1095 kg more than 1997 Caterham C21. 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 98 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Caterham C21. (252 Nm @ 5750 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Caterham C21. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 1997 Caterham C21 has manual transmission. 1997 Caterham C21 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Caterham C21 | 2006 Mercedes-Benz C | |
Make | Caterham | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | C21 | C |
Year Released | 1997 | 2006 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1998 cc | 3498 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 250 HP | 269 HP |
Engine RPM | 8000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 252 Nm | 350 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5750 RPM | 2400 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Vehicle Weight | 690 kg | 1785 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4820 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1500 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2720 mm |