2009 Audi A4 vs. 1996 Caterham 7
To start off, 2009 Audi A4 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Caterham 7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Caterham 7 would be higher. At 2,995 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Audi A4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A4 (328 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 190 more horse power than 1996 Caterham 7. (138 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A4 should accelerate faster than 1996 Caterham 7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A4 weights approximately 1172 kg more than 1996 Caterham 7. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Audi A4 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Caterham 7. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Audi A4 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, 2009 Audi A4 (440 Nm @ 2900 RPM) has 284 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Caterham 7. (156 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Caterham 7.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A4 | 1996 Caterham 7 | |
| Make | Audi | Caterham |
| Model | A4 | 7 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2995 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 328 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 440 Nm | 156 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2900 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1650 kg | 478 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 3110 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 810 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2820 mm | 2240 mm |
