1992 Alfa Romeo 164 vs. 2003 Caterham 7
To start off, 2003 Caterham 7 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1992 Alfa Romeo 164. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1992 Alfa Romeo 164 would be higher. At 2,959 cc (6 cylinders), 1992 Alfa Romeo 164 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1992 Alfa Romeo 164 (207 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 2003 Caterham 7. (200 HP @ 7500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1992 Alfa Romeo 164 should accelerate faster than 2003 Caterham 7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1992 Alfa Romeo 164 weights approximately 1016 kg more than 2003 Caterham 7. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Caterham 7 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 2003 Caterham 7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1992 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, 1992 Alfa Romeo 164 (270 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Caterham 7. (210 Nm @ 5750 RPM). This means 1992 Alfa Romeo 164 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Caterham 7.
Compare all specifications:
| 1992 Alfa Romeo 164 | 2003 Caterham 7 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Caterham |
| Model | 164 | 7 |
| Year Released | 1992 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2959 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 207 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 7500 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 80.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.6 mm | 89.3 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1506 kg | 490 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 3110 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 810 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2230 mm |
