2009 Alfa Romeo 147 vs. 1998 Caterham C21
To start off, 2009 Alfa Romeo 147 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Caterham C21. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Caterham C21 would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Alfa Romeo 147 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Alfa Romeo 147 (118 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 1998 Caterham C21. (115 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Alfa Romeo 147 should accelerate faster than 1998 Caterham C21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Alfa Romeo 147 weights approximately 625 kg more than 1998 Caterham C21. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 Caterham C21 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 1998 Caterham C21. 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, both vehicles can yield 146 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Alfa Romeo 147 | 1998 Caterham C21 | |
Make | Alfa Romeo | Caterham |
Model | 147 | C21 |
Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1588 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 118 HP | 115 HP |
Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 146 Nm | 146 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 80 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 75.7 mm | 79 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1275 kg | 650 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 3810 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1590 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1060 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2260 mm |