2006 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 1994 Caterham Seven
To start off, 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 12 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 2,198 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 (182 HP) has 17 more horse power than 1994 Caterham Seven. (165 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1994 Caterham Seven. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 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, 2006 Alfa Romeo 159, 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, 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 (230 Nm) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1994 Caterham Seven. (203 Nm). This means 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1994 Caterham Seven.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 | 1994 Caterham Seven | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Caterham |
| Model | 159 | Seven |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1994 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2198 cc | 1998 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 182 HP | 165 HP |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.1 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94.6 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1615 kg | 540 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 3400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1090 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2240 mm |
