2002 Caterham Superlight R vs. 2005 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen Golf 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 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Caterham Superlight R (190 HP @ 7500 RPM) has 77 more horse power than 2005 Volkswagen Golf. (113 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Caterham Superlight R should accelerate faster than 2005 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 794 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, 2005 Volkswagen Golf, 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 33 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Volkswagen Golf. (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2002 Caterham Superlight R will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Caterham Superlight R | 2005 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Caterham | Volkswagen |
| Model | Superlight R | Golf |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1795 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5750 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| 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 | 1284 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2520 mm |
