1997 Caterham C21 vs. 2012 Audi A6
To start off, 2012 Audi A6 is newer by 15 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Audi A6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Audi A6 (211 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 96 more horse power than 1997 Caterham C21. (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Audi A6 should accelerate faster than 1997 Caterham C21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Audi A6 weights approximately 1020 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 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, 2012 Audi A6, 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, 2012 Audi A6 (349 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 204 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Caterham C21. (145 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Audi A6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Caterham C21.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Caterham C21 | 2012 Audi A6 | |
| Make | Caterham | Audi |
| Model | C21 | A6 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1587 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 211 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 349 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | CVT |
| Vehicle Weight | 650 kg | 1670 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4915 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1872 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1453 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2911 mm |
