2008 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 1996 Caterham 7
To start off, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Caterham 7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Caterham 7 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 59 more horse power than 1996 Caterham 7. (138 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1996 Caterham 7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 1277 kg more than 1996 Caterham 7. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Caterham 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 1996 Caterham 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 (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 244 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Caterham 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 1996 Caterham 7.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Alfa Romeo 159 | 1996 Caterham 7 | |
Make | Alfa Romeo | Caterham |
Model | 159 | 7 |
Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2387 cc | 1588 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 197 HP | 138 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 7000 RPM |
Torque | 400 Nm | 156 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
Top Speed | 226 km/hour | 203 km/hour |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1755 kg | 478 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 3110 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1580 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 810 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2240 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 36 L |