2002 Caterham Superlight R vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz R
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz R is newer by 9 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 2,987 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz R is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Caterham Superlight R (190 HP @ 7500 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 2011 Mercedes-Benz R. (187 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Caterham Superlight R should accelerate faster than 2011 Mercedes-Benz R.
Because 2011 Mercedes-Benz R is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2002 Caterham Superlight R. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz R will offer significantly more control. 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz R (440 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 237 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Caterham Superlight R. (203 Nm @ 5750 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz R will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Caterham Superlight R. 2011 Mercedes-Benz R has automatic transmission and 2002 Caterham Superlight R has manual transmission. 2002 Caterham Superlight R will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Mercedes-Benz R will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Caterham Superlight R | 2011 Mercedes-Benz R | |
| Make | Caterham | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Superlight R | R |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1795 cc | 2987 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 187 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 440 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5750 RPM | 1400 RPM |
| Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 216 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 5156 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1958 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1661 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 3216 mm |
