2003 Alfa Romeo 166 vs. 1997 TVR Chimaera
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 TVR Chimaera. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 TVR Chimaera would be higher. At 3,946 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 TVR Chimaera is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 TVR Chimaera (225 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 2003 Alfa Romeo 166. (217 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 TVR Chimaera should accelerate faster than 2003 Alfa Romeo 166. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 weights approximately 525 kg more than 1997 TVR Chimaera.
Because 1997 TVR Chimaera 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 TVR Chimaera. 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, 1997 TVR Chimaera (373 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 108 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Alfa Romeo 166. (265 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1997 TVR Chimaera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Alfa Romeo 166. 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 has automatic transmission and 1997 TVR Chimaera has manual transmission. 1997 TVR Chimaera will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 | 1997 TVR Chimaera | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | TVR |
| Model | 166 | Chimaera |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2959 cc | 3946 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 225 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 265 Nm | 373 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 94.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.6 mm | 71.1 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 1025 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2290 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 69 L | 57 L |
