1999 Alfa Romeo 146 vs. 2003 Caterham 7
To start off, 2003 Caterham 7 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Alfa Romeo 146. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Alfa Romeo 146 would be higher. At 1,970 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Alfa Romeo 146 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Caterham 7 (160 HP @ 7500 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1999 Alfa Romeo 146. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 1999 Alfa Romeo 146. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Alfa Romeo 146 weights approximately 745 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, 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 (260 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 84 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Caterham 7. (176 Nm @ 5750 RPM). This means 1999 Alfa Romeo 146 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Caterham 7.
Compare all specifications:
1999 Alfa Romeo 146 | 2003 Caterham 7 | |
Make | Alfa Romeo | Caterham |
Model | 146 | 7 |
Year Released | 1999 | 2003 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1794 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 104 HP | 160 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 7500 RPM |
Torque | 260 Nm | 176 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 5750 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1245 kg | 500 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 3110 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1580 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 810 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2230 mm |