1997 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 2003 Caterham 7
To start off, 2003 Caterham 7 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Caterham 7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Caterham 7 (200 HP @ 7500 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider. (144 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider weights approximately 860 kg more than 2003 Caterham 7.
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, 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider, 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, 2003 Caterham 7 (210 Nm @ 5750 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider. (169 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Caterham 7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider | 2003 Caterham 7 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Caterham |
| Model | Spider | 7 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1747 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 144 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 7500 RPM |
| Torque | 169 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 490 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3110 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 810 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2230 mm |
