2002 Caterham Superlight R vs. 1985 Pontiac Grand Am
To start off, 2002 Caterham Superlight R is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Pontiac Grand Am. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Pontiac Grand Am would be higher. At 2,471 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Pontiac Grand Am is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Caterham Superlight R (190 HP @ 7500 RPM) has 100 more horse power than 1985 Pontiac Grand Am. (90 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Caterham Superlight R should accelerate faster than 1985 Pontiac Grand Am. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Pontiac Grand Am weights approximately 640 kg more than 2002 Caterham Superlight R.
Because 2002 Caterham Superlight R 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 2002 Caterham Superlight R. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 Pontiac Grand Am, 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, 2002 Caterham Superlight R (203 Nm @ 5750 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Pontiac Grand Am. (179 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2002 Caterham Superlight R will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Pontiac Grand Am.
Compare all specifications:
2002 Caterham Superlight R | 1985 Pontiac Grand Am | |
Make | Caterham | Pontiac |
Model | Superlight R | Grand Am |
Year Released | 2002 | 1985 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1795 cc | 2471 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 190 HP | 90 HP |
Engine RPM | 7500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Torque | 203 Nm | 179 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5750 RPM | 2800 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 490 kg | 1130 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4520 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1710 mm |
Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1340 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2630 mm |