2002 Caterham Superlight R vs. 2007 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 2007 Volkswagen Rabbit is newer by 5 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 2,501 cc (5 cylinders), 2007 Volkswagen Rabbit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Caterham Superlight R (190 HP @ 7500 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 2007 Volkswagen Rabbit. (150 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Caterham Superlight R should accelerate faster than 2007 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Volkswagen Rabbit weights approximately 866 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, 2007 Volkswagen Rabbit, 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, 2007 Volkswagen Rabbit (231 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Caterham Superlight R. (203 Nm @ 5750 RPM). This means 2007 Volkswagen Rabbit 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 | 2007 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | Caterham | Volkswagen |
| Model | Superlight R | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1795 cc | 2501 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5750 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 490 kg | 1356 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2580 mm |
