2005 Audi A4 vs. 1998 Caterham C21
To start off, 2005 Audi A4 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Caterham C21. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Caterham C21 would be higher. At 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Audi A4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Audi A4 (148 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1998 Caterham C21. (115 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Audi A4 should accelerate faster than 1998 Caterham C21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Audi A4 weights approximately 725 kg more than 1998 Caterham C21. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 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 1998 Caterham C21. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Audi A4, 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, 2005 Audi A4 (210 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 64 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Caterham C21. (146 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Caterham C21.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Audi A4 | 1998 Caterham C21 | |
| Make | Audi | Caterham |
| Model | A4 | C21 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 146 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81.1 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 79 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1375 kg | 650 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 3810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1060 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2260 mm |
