2007 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 1991 Caterham Super 7
To start off, 2007 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Caterham Super 7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Caterham Super 7 would be higher. At 1,859 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Alfa Romeo 159 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Alfa Romeo 159 (158 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1991 Caterham Super 7. (120 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1991 Caterham Super 7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 1095 kg more than 1991 Caterham Super 7. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1991 Caterham Super 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 1991 Caterham Super 7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 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, 2007 Alfa Romeo 159 (190 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 47 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Caterham Super 7. (143 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2007 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Caterham Super 7.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Alfa Romeo 159 | 1991 Caterham Super 7 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Caterham |
| Model | 159 | Super 7 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1991 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1859 cc | 1599 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 143 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 77.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 210 km/hour | 180 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1605 kg | 510 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 3380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1110 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2240 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 36 L |
