2003 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1998 Caterham C21
To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Caterham C21. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Caterham C21 would be higher. At 2,387 cc (5 cylinders), 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 (173 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 1998 Caterham C21. (115 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1998 Caterham C21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 860 kg more than 1998 Caterham C21. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 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 1998 Caterham C21. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 (385 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 239 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Caterham C21. (146 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Caterham C21.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1998 Caterham C21 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Caterham |
| Model | 156 | C21 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2387 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 385 Nm | 146 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 79 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1510 kg | 650 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 3810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1060 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2260 mm |
