2006 Audi A3 vs. 1997 Caterham C21
To start off, 2006 Audi A3 is newer by 9 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 3,189 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Caterham C21 (250 HP @ 8000 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 2006 Audi A3. (247 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Caterham C21 should accelerate faster than 2006 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Audi A3 weights approximately 738 kg more than 1997 Caterham C21.
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, 2006 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, 2006 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 68 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Caterham C21. (252 Nm @ 5750 RPM). This means 2006 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Caterham C21.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi A3 | 1997 Caterham C21 | |
| Make | Audi | Caterham |
| Model | A3 | C21 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3189 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 250 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 8000 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 252 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1428 kg | 690 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1060 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2260 mm |
