1996 Audi A3 vs. 2000 Caterham C21
To start off, 2000 Caterham C21 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Audi A3 would be higher. At 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Audi A3 (123 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 2000 Caterham C21. (115 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 2000 Caterham C21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Audi A3 weights approximately 490 kg more than 2000 Caterham C21. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2000 Caterham C21 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 2000 Caterham C21. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 1996 Audi A3 (173 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Caterham C21. (145 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1996 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Caterham C21.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A3 | 2000 Caterham C21 | |
| Make | Audi | Caterham |
| Model | A3 | C21 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2000 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 173 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 79 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 650 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 3810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1060 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2260 mm |
