2009 Audi A3 vs. 2003 Caterham 7
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Caterham 7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Caterham 7 would be higher. At 1,948 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Caterham 7 (200 HP @ 7500 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 2009 Audi A3. (197 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A3 weights approximately 440 kg more than 2003 Caterham 7.
Because 2003 Caterham 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 2003 Caterham 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 (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Caterham 7. (210 Nm @ 5750 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Caterham 7.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Audi A3 | 2003 Caterham 7 | |
Make | Audi | Caterham |
Model | A3 | 7 |
Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1948 cc | 1796 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 197 HP | 200 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 7500 RPM |
Torque | 280 Nm | 210 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 5750 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 80.1 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 89.3 mm |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 490 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3110 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1580 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 810 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2230 mm |