2003 Caterham 7 vs. 1997 Alfa Romeo 146
To start off, 2003 Caterham 7 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Alfa Romeo 146. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Alfa Romeo 146 would be higher. At 1,794 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Caterham 7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Caterham 7 (160 HP @ 7500 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 1997 Alfa Romeo 146. (129 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 1997 Alfa Romeo 146. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Alfa Romeo 146 weights approximately 725 kg more than 2003 Caterham 7.
Because 2003 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 2003 Caterham 7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Alfa Romeo 146, 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 Caterham 7 (176 Nm @ 5750 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Alfa Romeo 146. (149 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2003 Caterham 7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Alfa Romeo 146.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Caterham 7 | 1997 Alfa Romeo 146 | |
Make | Caterham | Alfa Romeo |
Model | 7 | 146 |
Year Released | 2003 | 1997 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1794 cc | 1712 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
Horse Power | 160 HP | 129 HP |
Engine RPM | 7500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 176 Nm | 149 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5750 RPM | 4300 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 87 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 89.3 mm | 72 mm |
Top Speed | 209 km/hour | 201 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 500 kg | 1225 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4260 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2550 mm |