1987 Alfa Romeo 164 vs. 2000 Caterham C21
To start off, 2000 Caterham C21 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 2,492 cc (4 cylinders), 1987 Alfa Romeo 164 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Alfa Romeo 164 (123 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 2000 Caterham C21. (115 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1987 Alfa Romeo 164 should accelerate faster than 2000 Caterham C21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Alfa Romeo 164 weights approximately 840 kg more than 2000 Caterham C21. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2000 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 2000 Caterham C21. 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 149 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Caterham C21. (145 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1987 Alfa Romeo 164 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Caterham C21.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Alfa Romeo 164 | 2000 Caterham C21 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Caterham |
| Model | 164 | C21 |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2000 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2492 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 294 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 22.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 650 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 3810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1060 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2260 mm |
