2007 Audi A3 vs. 1996 Caterham 7
To start off, 2007 Audi A3 is newer by 11 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 1,967 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 138 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Audi A3 weights approximately 892 kg more than 1996 Caterham 7.
Because 1996 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 1996 Caterham 7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 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, 2007 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 164 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Caterham 7. (156 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2007 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Caterham 7. 2007 Audi A3 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. 2007 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Audi A3 | 1996 Caterham 7 | |
| Make | Audi | Caterham |
| Model | A3 | 7 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1967 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 156 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 207 km/hour | 203 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1370 kg | 478 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 3110 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 810 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2240 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 36 L |
