2001 Alfa Romeo 146 vs. 1997 Caterham C21
To start off, 2001 Alfa Romeo 146 is newer by 4 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 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Caterham C21 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Caterham C21 (138 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 2001 Alfa Romeo 146. (102 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Caterham C21 should accelerate faster than 2001 Alfa Romeo 146. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Alfa Romeo 146 weights approximately 506 kg more than 1997 Caterham C21.
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, 2001 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, 1997 Caterham C21 (153 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Alfa Romeo 146. (124 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 1997 Caterham C21 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Alfa Romeo 146.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Alfa Romeo 146 | 1997 Caterham C21 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Caterham |
| Model | 146 | C21 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1370 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 102 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 124 Nm | 153 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.1 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 64.9 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1160 kg | 654 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 3810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1060 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2260 mm |
