1999 Alfa Romeo 146 vs. 1991 Caterham Super 7
To start off, 1999 Alfa Romeo 146 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Caterham Super 7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Caterham Super 7 would be higher. At 1,970 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Alfa Romeo 146 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Alfa Romeo 146 (148 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1991 Caterham Super 7. (120 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Alfa Romeo 146 should accelerate faster than 1991 Caterham Super 7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Alfa Romeo 146 weights approximately 705 kg more than 1991 Caterham Super 7. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1991 Caterham Super 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 1991 Caterham Super 7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Alfa Romeo 146, 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 146 (187 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Caterham Super 7. (143 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1999 Alfa Romeo 146 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Caterham Super 7.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Alfa Romeo 146 | 1991 Caterham Super 7 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Caterham |
| Model | 146 | Super 7 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1991 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1599 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 187 Nm | 143 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 77.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 216 km/hour | 180 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1215 kg | 510 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 3380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1110 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2240 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 36 L |
