2008 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 1985 Caterham 1700
To start off, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Caterham 1700. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Caterham 1700 would be higher. At 2,387 cc (5 cylinders), 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 (197 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 1985 Caterham 1700. (135 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1985 Caterham 1700. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 1167 kg more than 1985 Caterham 1700. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1985 Caterham 1700 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 1985 Caterham 1700. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 235 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Caterham 1700. (165 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Caterham 1700.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 | 1985 Caterham 1700 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Caterham |
| Model | 159 | 1700 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2387 cc | 1692 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 83.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 77.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 228 km/hour | 179 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1710 kg | 543 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 3400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1090 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2240 mm |
