2002 Caterham Superlight R vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Caterham Superlight R. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Caterham Superlight R would be higher. At 2,148 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Caterham Superlight R (190 HP @ 7500 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 2005 Mercedes-Benz C. (134 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Caterham Superlight R should accelerate faster than 2005 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 1030 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C (340 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 137 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Caterham Superlight R. (203 Nm @ 5750 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Caterham Superlight R. 2005 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 2002 Caterham Superlight R has manual transmission. 2002 Caterham Superlight R will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Caterham Superlight R | 2005 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Caterham | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Superlight R | C |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1795 cc | 2148 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5750 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 215 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 490 kg | 1520 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2720 mm |
