1991 Alfa Romeo 33 vs. 2004 Lotus Elise
To start off, 2004 Lotus Elise is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Alfa Romeo 33. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Alfa Romeo 33 would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Lotus Elise is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Lotus Elise (120 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1991 Alfa Romeo 33. (87 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1991 Alfa Romeo 33. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Alfa Romeo 33 weights approximately 190 kg more than 2004 Lotus Elise.
Because 2004 Lotus Elise 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 2004 Lotus Elise. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1991 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, 2004 Lotus Elise (172 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Alfa Romeo 33. (124 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Lotus Elise will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Alfa Romeo 33.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Alfa Romeo 33 | 2004 Lotus Elise | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Lotus |
| Model | 33 | Elise |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1351 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 87 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 124 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 940 kg | 750 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4080 mm | 3790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1150 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2310 mm |
