2009 Alfa Romeo 147 vs. 1996 Caterham 7
To start off, 2009 Alfa Romeo 147 is newer by 13 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 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Alfa Romeo 147 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Caterham 7 (138 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 2009 Alfa Romeo 147. (104 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 2009 Alfa Romeo 147. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Alfa Romeo 147 weights approximately 788 kg more than 1996 Caterham 7.
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, 2009 Alfa Romeo 147, 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, 1996 Caterham 7 (156 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Alfa Romeo 147. (140 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1996 Caterham 7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Alfa Romeo 147.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Alfa Romeo 147 | 1996 Caterham 7 | |
Make | Alfa Romeo | Caterham |
Model | 147 | 7 |
Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1588 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 104 HP | 138 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 7000 RPM |
Torque | 140 Nm | 156 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 10.5:1 |
Top Speed | 185 km/hour | 203 km/hour |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1266 kg | 478 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 3110 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1580 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 810 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2240 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 36 L |