1968 Lotus Elan vs. 1997 Alfa Romeo 146
To start off, 1997 Alfa Romeo 146 is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,558 cc (4 cylinders), 1968 Lotus Elan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1968 Lotus Elan (108 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1997 Alfa Romeo 146. (90 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1968 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1997 Alfa Romeo 146. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Alfa Romeo 146 weights approximately 473 kg more than 1968 Lotus Elan.
Because 1968 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 1968 Lotus Elan. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Alfa Romeo 146, 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.
Compare all specifications:
1968 Lotus Elan | 1997 Alfa Romeo 146 | |
Make | Lotus | Alfa Romeo |
Model | Elan | 146 |
Year Released | 1968 | 1997 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1558 cc | 1351 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
Horse Power | 108 HP | 90 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 80 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 72.7 mm | 67.2 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 702 kg | 1175 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3690 mm | 4260 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1170 mm | 1430 mm |