2002 Caterham Superlight R vs. 1987 TVR Type S
To start off, 2002 Caterham Superlight R is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 TVR Type S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 TVR Type S would be higher. At 2,792 cc (6 cylinders), 1987 TVR Type S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Caterham Superlight R (190 HP @ 7500 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1987 TVR Type S. (158 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Caterham Superlight R should accelerate faster than 1987 TVR Type S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 TVR Type S weights approximately 410 kg more than 2002 Caterham Superlight R.
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, 1987 TVR Type S (220 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Caterham Superlight R. (203 Nm @ 5750 RPM). This means 1987 TVR Type S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Caterham Superlight R.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Caterham Superlight R | 1987 TVR Type S | |
| Make | Caterham | TVR |
| Model | Superlight R | Type S |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1987 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1795 cc | 2792 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5750 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 490 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 3970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1130 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2300 mm |
