1985 Alfa Romeo 33 vs. 1997 Caterham C21
To start off, 1997 Caterham C21 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Alfa Romeo 33. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Alfa Romeo 33 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Caterham C21 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Caterham C21 (250 HP @ 8000 RPM) has 144 more horse power than 1985 Alfa Romeo 33. (106 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Caterham C21 should accelerate faster than 1985 Alfa Romeo 33. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Alfa Romeo 33 weights approximately 210 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, 1985 Alfa Romeo 33, 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, 1997 Caterham C21 (252 Nm @ 5750 RPM) has 117 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Alfa Romeo 33. (135 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Caterham C21 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Alfa Romeo 33.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Alfa Romeo 33 | 1997 Caterham C21 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Caterham |
| Model | 33 | C21 |
| Year Released | 1985 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1489 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Horse Power | 106 HP | 250 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 8000 RPM |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 252 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 900 kg | 690 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 3810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1060 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2260 mm |
