2002 Caterham Superlight R vs. 2001 Opel Meriva
To start off, 2002 Caterham Superlight R is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Opel Meriva. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Opel Meriva would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Opel Meriva is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Caterham Superlight R (190 HP @ 7500 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 2001 Opel Meriva. (123 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Caterham Superlight R should accelerate faster than 2001 Opel Meriva. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Opel Meriva weights approximately 900 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, 2001 Opel Meriva, 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, 2001 Opel Meriva (240 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Caterham Superlight R. (203 Nm @ 5750 RPM). This means 2001 Opel Meriva 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 | 2001 Opel Meriva | |
| Make | Caterham | Opel |
| Model | Superlight R | Meriva |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1795 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5750 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 187 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 490 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2740 mm |
