2009 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 2003 Caterham 7
To start off, 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Caterham 7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Caterham 7 would be higher. At 1,859 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Caterham 7 (200 HP @ 7500 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 2009 Alfa Romeo 159. (158 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 2009 Alfa Romeo 159. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 1115 kg more than 2003 Caterham 7.
Because 2003 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 2003 Caterham 7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2003 Caterham 7 (210 Nm @ 5750 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Alfa Romeo 159. (190 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2003 Caterham 7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Alfa Romeo 159.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 | 2003 Caterham 7 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Caterham |
| Model | 159 | 7 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1859 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 7500 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 80.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 89.3 mm |
| 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 | 490 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 3110 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 810 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2230 mm |
