1997 Audi A4 vs. 1998 Caterham C21
To start off, 1998 Caterham C21 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Audi A4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Audi A4 would be higher. At 1,595 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Audi A4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Caterham C21 (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1997 Audi A4. (100 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Caterham C21 should accelerate faster than 1997 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Audi A4 weights approximately 535 kg more than 1998 Caterham C21.
Because 1998 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 1998 Caterham C21. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Audi A4, 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, 1998 Caterham C21 (146 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Audi A4. (140 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1998 Caterham C21 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Audi A4.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Audi A4 | 1998 Caterham C21 | |
| Make | Audi | Caterham |
| Model | A4 | C21 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 146 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81.1 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.5 mm | 79 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1185 kg | 650 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 3810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1060 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2260 mm |
