1996 Alfa Romeo GTV vs. 1997 Caterham C21
To start off, 1997 Caterham C21 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Alfa Romeo GTV. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Alfa Romeo GTV would be higher. At 1,970 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Alfa Romeo GTV is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 138 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Alfa Romeo GTV weights approximately 661 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, 1996 Alfa Romeo GTV, 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, 1996 Alfa Romeo GTV (187 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Caterham C21. (153 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1996 Alfa Romeo GTV will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Caterham C21.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Alfa Romeo GTV | 1997 Caterham C21 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Caterham |
| Model | GTV | C21 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 187 Nm | 153 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1315 kg | 654 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1060 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2260 mm |
