2009 Audi A4 vs. 1997 Caterham C21
To start off, 2009 Audi A4 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 A4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Caterham C21 (138 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 2009 Audi A4. (114 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Caterham C21 should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi A4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A4 weights approximately 776 kg more than 1997 Caterham C21.
Because 2009 Audi A4 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Caterham C21. 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 (285 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 132 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Caterham C21. (153 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Caterham C21.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A4 | 1997 Caterham C21 | |
| Make | Audi | Caterham |
| Model | A4 | C21 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 285 Nm | 153 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79.6 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 | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1430 kg | 654 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 3810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1060 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2260 mm |
