2002 Caterham Superlight R vs. 1989 Dodge Shadow
To start off, 2002 Caterham Superlight R is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Dodge Shadow. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Dodge Shadow would be higher. At 2,213 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Dodge Shadow is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Caterham Superlight R (190 HP @ 7500 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1989 Dodge Shadow. (175 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Caterham Superlight R should accelerate faster than 1989 Dodge Shadow. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Dodge Shadow weights approximately 798 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, 1989 Dodge Shadow, 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, 1989 Dodge Shadow (278 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Caterham Superlight R. (203 Nm @ 5750 RPM). This means 1989 Dodge Shadow 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 | 1989 Dodge Shadow | |
| Make | Caterham | Dodge |
| Model | Superlight R | Shadow |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1795 cc | 2213 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 278 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5750 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 8.1:1 |
| Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 212 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 490 kg | 1288 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2470 mm |
