1997 Caterham C21 vs. 2002 Audi TT
To start off, 2002 Audi TT is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Caterham C21. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Caterham C21 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Caterham C21 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Caterham C21 (250 HP @ 8000 RPM) has 102 more horse power than 2002 Audi TT. (148 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Caterham C21 should accelerate faster than 2002 Audi TT. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Audi TT weights approximately 650 kg more than 1997 Caterham C21.
Because 1997 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 1997 Caterham C21. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Audi TT, 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, 1997 Caterham C21 (252 Nm @ 5750 RPM) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Audi TT. (210 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 1997 Caterham C21 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Audi TT. 2002 Audi TT has automatic transmission and 1997 Caterham C21 has manual transmission. 1997 Caterham C21 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Audi TT will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Caterham C21 | 2002 Audi TT | |
| Make | Caterham | Audi |
| Model | C21 | TT |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 250 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 252 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5750 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 690 kg | 1340 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2430 mm |
