2008 Audi A4 vs. 1997 Caterham C21
To start off, 2008 Audi A4 is newer by 11 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Caterham C21 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Caterham C21 (250 HP @ 8000 RPM) has 63 more horse power than 2008 Audi A4. (187 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Caterham C21 should accelerate faster than 2008 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A4 weights approximately 705 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, 2008 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, 1997 Caterham C21 (252 Nm @ 5750 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Audi A4. (240 Nm @ 1950 RPM). This means 1997 Caterham C21 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Audi A4.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A4 | 1997 Caterham C21 | |
| Make | Audi | Caterham |
| Model | A4 | C21 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1780 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 187 HP | 250 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 8000 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 252 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1950 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1395 kg | 690 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 |
