2002 Caterham Superlight R vs. 1980 Mercedes-Benz G
To start off, 2002 Caterham Superlight R is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Mercedes-Benz G. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Mercedes-Benz G would be higher. At 2,297 cc (4 cylinders), 1980 Mercedes-Benz G is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Caterham Superlight R (190 HP @ 7500 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1980 Mercedes-Benz G. (125 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Caterham Superlight R should accelerate faster than 1980 Mercedes-Benz G. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Mercedes-Benz G weights approximately 1390 kg more than 2002 Caterham Superlight R.
Because 1980 Mercedes-Benz G is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2002 Caterham Superlight R. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 Mercedes-Benz G 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, 2002 Caterham Superlight R (203 Nm @ 5750 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Mercedes-Benz G. (192 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2002 Caterham Superlight R will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Mercedes-Benz G.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Caterham Superlight R | 1980 Mercedes-Benz G | |
| Make | Caterham | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Superlight R | G |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1795 cc | 2297 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 125 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 192 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 490 kg | 1880 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4240 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1940 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2410 mm |
