1966 Lotus Elan vs. 2012 Alfa Romeo Giulietta

To start off, 2012 Alfa Romeo Giulietta is newer by 46 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,742 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Alfa Romeo Giulietta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Alfa Romeo Giulietta (232 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 117 more horse power than 1966 Lotus Elan. (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Alfa Romeo Giulietta should accelerate faster than 1966 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Alfa Romeo Giulietta weights approximately 659 kg more than 1966 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1966 Lotus Elan 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 1966 Lotus Elan. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Alfa Romeo Giulietta, 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, 2012 Alfa Romeo Giulietta (340 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 193 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Lotus Elan. (147 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Alfa Romeo Giulietta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Lotus Elan.

Compare all specifications:

1966 Lotus Elan 2012 Alfa Romeo Giulietta
Make Lotus Alfa Romeo
Model Elan Giulietta
Year Released 1966 2012
Body Type Convertible Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1557 cc 1742 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 115 HP 232 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 5500 RPM
Torque 147 Nm 340 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 1900 RPM
Top Speed 190 km/hour 242 km/hour
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 2 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 696 kg 1355 kg
Vehicle Length 3700 mm 4351 mm
Vehicle Width 1430 mm 1798 mm
Vehicle Height 1180 mm 1465 mm
Wheelbase Size 2140 mm 2634 mm