2002 Caterham Superlight R vs. 2012 McLaren MP4-12C
To start off, 2012 McLaren MP4-12C is newer by 10 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 3,800 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 McLaren MP4-12C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 McLaren MP4-12C (592 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 402 more horse power than 2002 Caterham Superlight R. (190 HP @ 7500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 McLaren MP4-12C should accelerate faster than 2002 Caterham Superlight R. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 McLaren MP4-12C weights approximately 944 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.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2012 McLaren MP4-12C (600 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 397 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Caterham Superlight R. (203 Nm @ 5750 RPM). This means 2012 McLaren MP4-12C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Caterham Superlight R. 2012 McLaren MP4-12C 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. 2012 McLaren MP4-12C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Caterham Superlight R | 2012 McLaren MP4-12C | |
| Make | Caterham | McLaren |
| Model | Superlight R | MP4-12C |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1795 cc | 3800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 592 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7500 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 600 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 490 kg | 1434 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4506 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1199 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2670 mm |
