1987 Alfa Romeo 164 vs. 1996 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 1996 Lotus Esprit is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Alfa Romeo 164. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Alfa Romeo 164 would be higher. At 2,959 cc (6 cylinders), 1987 Alfa Romeo 164 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Lotus Esprit (285 HP) has 93 more horse power than 1987 Alfa Romeo 164. (192 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1987 Alfa Romeo 164.
Because 1996 Lotus Esprit 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 1996 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 Alfa Romeo 164, 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, 1996 Lotus Esprit (510 Nm) has 265 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Alfa Romeo 164. (245 Nm). This means 1996 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Alfa Romeo 164.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Alfa Romeo 164 | 1996 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Lotus |
| Model | 164 | Esprit |
| Year Released | 1987 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2959 cc | 2174 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 192 HP | 285 HP |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 510 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 95.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.6 mm | 76.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 230 km/hour | 265 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4650 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1150 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2420 mm |
