2001 Audi A2 vs. 1985 Caterham 1700
To start off, 2001 Audi A2 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Caterham 1700. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Caterham 1700 would be higher. At 1,692 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Caterham 1700 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Caterham 1700 (135 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 2001 Audi A2. (89 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1985 Caterham 1700 should accelerate faster than 2001 Audi A2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Audi A2 weights approximately 487 kg more than 1985 Caterham 1700.
Because 1985 Caterham 1700 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 1985 Caterham 1700. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Audi A2, 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, 2001 Audi A2 (230 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Caterham 1700. (165 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2001 Audi A2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Caterham 1700.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Audi A2 | 1985 Caterham 1700 | |
| Make | Audi | Caterham |
| Model | A2 | 1700 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1422 cc | 1692 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79.5 mm | 83.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 77.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 188 km/hour | 179 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1030 kg | 543 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3830 mm | 3400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1560 mm | 1090 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2240 mm |
