2003 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 2000 Caterham 7
To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2000 Caterham 7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2000 Caterham 7 would be higher. At 3,179 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider (248 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 78 more horse power than 2000 Caterham 7. (170 HP @ 10750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider should accelerate faster than 2000 Caterham 7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider weights approximately 1050 kg more than 2000 Caterham 7. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2000 Caterham 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 2000 Caterham 7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider, 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 Spider (305 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 180 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Caterham 7. (125 Nm @ 8250 RPM). This means 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Caterham 7.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider | 2000 Caterham 7 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Caterham |
| Model | Spider | 7 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2000 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3179 cc | 1137 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 248 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 10750 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 8250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 58 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 440 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 3110 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1010 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2260 mm |
