2002 Caterham Superlight R vs. 2008 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Polo 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 1,895 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Polo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Caterham Superlight R (190 HP @ 7500 RPM) has 127 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Polo. (63 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Caterham Superlight R should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Polo weights approximately 670 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 Volkswagen Polo, 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 78 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen Polo. (125 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2002 Caterham Superlight R will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Caterham Superlight R | 2008 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Caterham | Volkswagen |
| Model | Superlight R | Polo |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1795 cc | 1895 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 63 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5750 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 19.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 160 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 490 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 3900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2470 mm |
