2009 Audi A3 vs. 1995 Caterham Super 7
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 Caterham Super 7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 Caterham Super 7 would be higher. At 1,983 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A3 (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 1995 Caterham Super 7. (138 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1995 Caterham Super 7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A3 weights approximately 476 kg more than 1995 Caterham Super 7. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1995 Caterham Super 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 1995 Caterham Super 7. 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 (281 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 125 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 Caterham Super 7. (156 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 Caterham Super 7. 2009 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1995 Caterham Super 7 has manual transmission. 1995 Caterham Super 7 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A3 | 1995 Caterham Super 7 | |
| Make | Audi | Caterham |
| Model | A3 | Super 7 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1995 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 281 Nm | 156 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1030 kg | 554 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3390 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1100 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2260 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 30 L |
