2005 Alfa Romeo 166 vs. 1994 Caterham Seven
To start off, 2005 Alfa Romeo 166 is newer by 11 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 2,492 cc (5 cylinders), 2005 Alfa Romeo 166 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Alfa Romeo 166 (173 HP) has 8 more horse power than 1994 Caterham Seven. (165 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Alfa Romeo 166 should accelerate faster than 1994 Caterham Seven. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Alfa Romeo 166 weights approximately 1075 kg more than 1994 Caterham Seven. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2005 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, 2005 Alfa Romeo 166 (385 Nm) has 182 more torque (in Nm) than 1994 Caterham Seven. (203 Nm). This means 2005 Alfa Romeo 166 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1994 Caterham Seven.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Alfa Romeo 166 | 1994 Caterham Seven | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Caterham |
| Model | 166 | Seven |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1994 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2492 cc | 1998 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 165 HP |
| Torque | 385 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 217 km/hour | 194 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1615 kg | 540 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 3400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1090 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2240 mm |
