1988 Audi 90 vs. 1996 Caterham 7
To start off, 1996 Caterham 7 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Audi 90. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Audi 90 would be higher. At 1,994 cc (5 cylinders), 1988 Audi 90 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Caterham 7 (138 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1988 Audi 90. (114 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 1988 Audi 90. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Audi 90 weights approximately 632 kg more than 1996 Caterham 7.
Because 1996 Caterham 7 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 1996 Caterham 7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Audi 90, 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, 1988 Audi 90 (172 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Caterham 7. (156 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1988 Audi 90 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Caterham 7.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Audi 90 | 1996 Caterham 7 | |
| Make | Audi | Caterham |
| Model | 90 | 7 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1994 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 172 Nm | 156 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1110 kg | 478 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 3110 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 810 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2240 mm |
