2009 Audi A3 vs. 1997 Caterham C21
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 12 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 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Caterham C21 (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 2009 Audi A3. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Caterham C21 should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A3 weights approximately 710 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, 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 (250 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 105 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Caterham C21. (145 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Caterham C21.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A3 | 1997 Caterham C21 | |
| Make | Audi | Caterham |
| Model | A3 | C21 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 1587 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79.5 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 650 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 3810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1060 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2260 mm |
