2008 Audi A8 vs. 1997 Caterham C21
To start off, 2008 Audi A8 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 3,936 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi A8 (271 HP @ 3750 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1997 Caterham C21. (250 HP @ 8000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1997 Caterham C21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A8 weights approximately 1254 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 2008 Audi A8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Caterham C21. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Audi A8 (650 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 398 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Caterham C21. (252 Nm @ 5750 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Caterham C21. 2008 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 1997 Caterham C21 has manual transmission. 1997 Caterham C21 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Audi A8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A8 | 1997 Caterham C21 | |
| Make | Audi | Caterham |
| Model | A8 | C21 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3936 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 271 HP | 250 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3750 RPM | 8000 RPM |
| Torque | 650 Nm | 252 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1944 kg | 690 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5190 mm | 3810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1060 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2260 mm |
