1985 Caterham 1700 vs. 2011 Audi A3
To start off, 2011 Audi A3 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Caterham 1700. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Caterham 1700 would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Audi A3 (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1985 Caterham 1700. (135 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1985 Caterham 1700. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Audi A3 weights approximately 917 kg more than 1985 Caterham 1700. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1985 Caterham 1700 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 1985 Caterham 1700. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Audi A3, 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, 2011 Audi A3 (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 115 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Caterham 1700. (165 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2011 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Caterham 1700. 2011 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1985 Caterham 1700 has manual transmission. 1985 Caterham 1700 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1985 Caterham 1700 | 2011 Audi A3 | |
Make | Caterham | Audi |
Model | 1700 | A3 |
Year Released | 1985 | 2011 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1692 cc | 2000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 135 HP | 200 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5100 RPM |
Torque | 165 Nm | 280 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automated manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 543 kg | 1460 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3400 mm | 4290 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1763 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1090 mm | 1422 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2578 mm |