1997 Caterham C21 vs. 1999 Alfa Romeo 156
To start off, 1999 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Caterham C21. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Caterham C21 would be higher. At 2,386 cc (5 cylinders), 1999 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Alfa Romeo 156 (136 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1997 Caterham C21. (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1997 Caterham C21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 700 kg more than 1997 Caterham C21. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1999 Alfa Romeo 156, 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, 1999 Alfa Romeo 156 (304 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 159 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Caterham C21. (145 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1999 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Caterham C21.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Caterham C21 | 1999 Alfa Romeo 156 | |
Make | Caterham | Alfa Romeo |
Model | C21 | 156 |
Year Released | 1997 | 1999 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1587 cc | 2386 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 115 HP | 136 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Torque | 145 Nm | 304 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 82 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 90.4 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 18.5:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 650 kg | 1350 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4440 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1750 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2600 mm |