2005 Audi A8 vs. 1996 Caterham 7
To start off, 2005 Audi A8 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Caterham 7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Caterham 7 would be higher. At 2,966 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Audi A8 (230 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 92 more horse power than 1996 Caterham 7. (138 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1996 Caterham 7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Audi A8 weights approximately 1352 kg more than 1996 Caterham 7. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Audi A8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Caterham 7. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Audi A8 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, 2005 Audi A8 (450 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 294 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Caterham 7. (156 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2005 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Caterham 7. 2005 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 1996 Caterham 7 has manual transmission. 1996 Caterham 7 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Audi A8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Audi A8 | 1996 Caterham 7 | |
| Make | Audi | Caterham |
| Model | A8 | 7 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2966 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 230 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 450 Nm | 156 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 243 km/hour | 203 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1830 kg | 478 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 3110 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 810 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2240 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 36 L |
