1970 Lotus Elan vs. 2008 Alfa Romeo 156
To start off, 2008 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 38 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,970 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Alfa Romeo 156 (148 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1970 Lotus Elan. (108 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1970 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 585 kg more than 1970 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1970 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 1970 Lotus Elan. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Alfa Romeo 156, 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. 2008 Alfa Romeo 156 has automatic transmission and 1970 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1970 Lotus Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Alfa Romeo 156 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1970 Lotus Elan | 2008 Alfa Romeo 156 | |
| Make | Lotus | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | Elan | 156 |
| Year Released | 1970 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1556 cc | 1970 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 700 kg | 1285 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3690 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1170 mm | 1440 mm |
