2002 Caterham Superlight R vs. 2009 Citroen Xsara
To start off, 2009 Citroen Xsara 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 1,795 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Caterham Superlight R is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Caterham Superlight R (190 HP) has 96 more horse power than 2009 Citroen Xsara. (94 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Caterham Superlight R should accelerate faster than 2009 Citroen Xsara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 825 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, 2009 Citroen Xsara, 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 68 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Citroen Xsara. (135 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2002 Caterham Superlight R will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Citroen Xsara.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Caterham Superlight R | 2009 Citroen Xsara | |
| Make | Caterham | Citroen |
| Model | Superlight R | Xsara |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1795 cc | 1587 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 94 HP |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 171 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 | 1315 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1640 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2770 mm |
