2002 Caterham Superlight R vs. 2009 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 7 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 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volkswagen Golf (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 2002 Caterham Superlight R. (190 HP @ 7500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2002 Caterham Superlight R. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 757 kg more than 2002 Caterham Superlight R. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2009 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, 2009 Volkswagen Golf (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 77 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Caterham Superlight R. (203 Nm @ 5750 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen Golf 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 | 2009 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Caterham | Volkswagen |
| Model | Superlight R | Golf |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1795 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7500 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5750 RPM | 1800 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 | 1247 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2580 mm |
