1987 Alfa Romeo 164 vs. 2000 Caterham 21
To start off, 2000 Caterham 21 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Alfa Romeo 164. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Alfa Romeo 164 would be higher. At 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 1987 Alfa Romeo 164 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Caterham 21 (230 HP @ 8600 RPM) has 107 more horse power than 1987 Alfa Romeo 164. (123 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2000 Caterham 21 should accelerate faster than 1987 Alfa Romeo 164. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Alfa Romeo 164 weights approximately 950 kg more than 2000 Caterham 21.
Because 2000 Caterham 21 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 2000 Caterham 21. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 Alfa Romeo 164, 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, 1987 Alfa Romeo 164 (294 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 84 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Caterham 21. (210 Nm @ 7200 RPM). This means 1987 Alfa Romeo 164 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Caterham 21.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Alfa Romeo 164 | 2000 Caterham 21 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Caterham |
| Model | 164 | 21 |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2000 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2500 cc | 1794 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 230 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 8600 RPM |
| Torque | 294 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 7200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 22.0:1 | 11.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 202 km/hour | 241 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 540 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4560 mm | 3860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1590 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2230 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 100 L |
