1985 Alfa Romeo 33 vs. 1959 Lotus Elite
To start off, 1985 Alfa Romeo 33 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Lotus Elite. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Lotus Elite would be higher. At 1,489 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Alfa Romeo 33 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Alfa Romeo 33 (106 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1959 Lotus Elite. (71 HP @ 6100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1985 Alfa Romeo 33 should accelerate faster than 1959 Lotus Elite. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Alfa Romeo 33 weights approximately 320 kg more than 1959 Lotus Elite. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1959 Lotus Elite 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 1959 Lotus Elite. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 Alfa Romeo 33, 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, 1985 Alfa Romeo 33 (135 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Lotus Elite. (104 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1985 Alfa Romeo 33 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Lotus Elite.
Compare all specifications:
1985 Alfa Romeo 33 | 1959 Lotus Elite | |
Make | Alfa Romeo | Lotus |
Model | 33 | Elite |
Year Released | 1985 | 1959 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1489 cc | 1216 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
Horse Power | 106 HP | 71 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6100 RPM |
Torque | 135 Nm | 104 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 10.0:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 900 kg | 580 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 3710 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1510 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1190 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2240 mm |