1992 Caterham Super 7 vs. 2011 Audi A3
To start off, 2011 Audi A3 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1992 Caterham Super 7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1992 Caterham Super 7 would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1992 Caterham Super 7 (251 HP @ 7750 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 2011 Audi A3. (200 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1992 Caterham Super 7 should accelerate faster than 2011 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Audi A3 weights approximately 920 kg more than 1992 Caterham Super 7.
Because 1992 Caterham Super 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 1992 Caterham Super 7. 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 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1992 Caterham Super 7. (250 Nm @ 6250 RPM). This means 2011 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1992 Caterham Super 7. 2011 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1992 Caterham Super 7 has manual transmission. 1992 Caterham Super 7 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:
| 1992 Caterham Super 7 | 2011 Audi A3 | |
| Make | Caterham | Audi |
| Model | Super 7 | A3 |
| Year Released | 1992 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 251 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7750 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 6250 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 540 kg | 1460 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3390 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1763 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1130 mm | 1422 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2578 mm |
