2008 Audi A6 vs. 1997 Caterham C21
To start off, 2008 Audi A6 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 1,780 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Audi A6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi A6 (148 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1997 Caterham C21. (115 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi A6 should accelerate faster than 1997 Caterham C21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A6 weights approximately 840 kg more than 1997 Caterham C21. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 A6, 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, 2008 Audi A6 (210 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Caterham C21. (145 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Caterham C21.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A6 | 1997 Caterham C21 | |
| Make | Audi | Caterham |
| Model | A6 | C21 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1780 cc | 1587 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 | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 650 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 3810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1060 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2260 mm |
