2000 Caterham C21 vs. 1996 Alfa Romeo 146
To start off, 2000 Caterham C21 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Alfa Romeo 146. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Alfa Romeo 146 would be higher. At 1,712 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Alfa Romeo 146 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Alfa Romeo 146 (129 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 2000 Caterham C21. (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Alfa Romeo 146 should accelerate faster than 2000 Caterham C21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Alfa Romeo 146 weights approximately 575 kg more than 2000 Caterham C21. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2000 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 2000 Caterham C21. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 1996 Alfa Romeo 146 (149 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 4 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Caterham C21. (145 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1996 Alfa Romeo 146 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Caterham C21.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Caterham C21 | 1996 Alfa Romeo 146 | |
| Make | Caterham | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | C21 | 146 |
| Year Released | 2000 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1712 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 149 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 650 kg | 1225 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2550 mm |
