2002 Audi A3 vs. 2004 Caterham 7
To start off, 2004 Caterham 7 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Audi A3 would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Caterham 7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Caterham 7 (251 HP @ 8000 RPM) has 147 more horse power than 2002 Audi A3. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 2002 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Audi A3 weights approximately 825 kg more than 2004 Caterham 7.
Because 2004 Caterham 7 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 2004 Caterham 7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Audi A3, 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, 2004 Caterham 7 (258 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Audi A3. (250 Nm @ 1900 RPM). This means 2004 Caterham 7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Audi A3 | 2004 Caterham 7 | |
| Make | Audi | Caterham |
| Model | A3 | 7 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 251 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 8000 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 258 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1295 kg | 470 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 3110 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 810 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2230 mm |
