2003 Alfa Romeo 166 vs. 1997 Caterham C21
To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 is newer by 6 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 2,492 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 (185 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 1997 Caterham C21. (115 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 should accelerate faster than 1997 Caterham C21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 weights approximately 785 kg more than 1997 Caterham C21. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2003 Alfa Romeo 166, 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 166 (221 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 76 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Caterham C21. (145 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Caterham C21.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 | 1997 Caterham C21 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Caterham |
| Model | 166 | C21 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2492 cc | 1587 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 221 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1435 kg | 650 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 3810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1060 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2260 mm |
