2004 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1994 Caterham Seven
To start off, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1994 Caterham Seven. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1994 Caterham Seven would be higher. At 1,998 cc, 1994 Caterham Seven is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1994 Caterham Seven (165 HP) has 27 more horse power than 2004 Alfa Romeo 156. (138 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1994 Caterham Seven should accelerate faster than 2004 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 846 kg more than 1994 Caterham Seven.
Because 1994 Caterham Seven 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 1994 Caterham Seven. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 1994 Caterham Seven (203 Nm) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Alfa Romeo 156. (163 Nm). This means 1994 Caterham Seven will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Alfa Romeo 156.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1994 Caterham Seven | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Caterham |
| Model | 156 | Seven |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1994 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1747 cc | 1998 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 165 HP |
| Torque | 163 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.7 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 208 km/hour | 194 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1386 kg | 540 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 3400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1090 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2240 mm |
