2008 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 1995 Caterham Super 7
To start off, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 Caterham Super 7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 Caterham Super 7 would be higher. At 1,858 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 (158 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1995 Caterham Super 7. (138 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1995 Caterham Super 7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 1051 kg more than 1995 Caterham Super 7. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1995 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 1995 Caterham Super 7. 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 (190 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 Caterham Super 7. (156 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 Caterham Super 7.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 | 1995 Caterham Super 7 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Caterham |
| Model | 159 | Super 7 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1995 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1858 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 156 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 210 km/hour | 185 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 | 554 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 3390 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1100 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2260 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 30 L |
