1997 Caterham C21 vs. 2011 Audi A5
To start off, 2011 Audi A5 is newer by 14 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 3,197 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Audi A5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Audi A5 (261 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 123 more horse power than 1997 Caterham C21. (138 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Audi A5 should accelerate faster than 1997 Caterham C21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Audi A5 weights approximately 1106 kg more than 1997 Caterham C21. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 Audi A5 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Caterham C21. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Audi A5 will offer significantly more control. 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 A5 (330 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 177 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Caterham C21. (153 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2011 Audi A5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Caterham C21.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Caterham C21 | 2011 Audi A5 | |
| Make | Caterham | Audi |
| Model | C21 | A5 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 3197 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 261 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 153 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 654 kg | 1760 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4623 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1852 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1382 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2751 mm |
