2002 Caterham Superlight R vs. 2008 Opel Signum
To start off, 2008 Opel Signum is newer by 6 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 2,197 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Opel Signum is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Caterham Superlight R (190 HP @ 7500 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 2008 Opel Signum. (153 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Caterham Superlight R should accelerate faster than 2008 Opel Signum. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Opel Signum weights approximately 1045 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, 2008 Opel Signum, 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, 2008 Opel Signum (220 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Caterham Superlight R. (203 Nm @ 5750 RPM). This means 2008 Opel Signum 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 | 2008 Opel Signum | |
| Make | Caterham | Opel |
| Model | Superlight R | Signum |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1795 cc | 2197 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5750 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 12.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 211 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 | 1535 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2840 mm |
