2009 Audi A3 vs. 1985 Caterham 1700
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Caterham 1700. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Caterham 1700 would be higher. At 1,968 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A3 (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 1985 Caterham 1700. (135 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1985 Caterham 1700. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A3 weights approximately 907 kg more than 1985 Caterham 1700. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1985 Caterham 1700 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 1985 Caterham 1700. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 155 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Caterham 1700. (165 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Caterham 1700.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A3 | 1985 Caterham 1700 | |
| Make | Audi | Caterham |
| Model | A3 | 1700 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1968 cc | 1692 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 83.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 77.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 207 km/hour | 179 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1450 kg | 543 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1090 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2240 mm |
