2002 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1991 Caterham Super 7
To start off, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 11 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 2,492 cc (5 cylinders), 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 (173 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 63 more horse power than 1991 Caterham Super 7. (110 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1991 Caterham Super 7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 970 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, 2002 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, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 (385 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 253 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Caterham Super 7. (132 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Caterham Super 7.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1991 Caterham Super 7 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Caterham |
| Model | 156 | Super 7 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1991 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2492 cc | 1599 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 110 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 385 Nm | 132 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1480 kg | 510 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 3380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1110 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2240 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 36 L |
