1992 Alfa Romeo 33 vs. 1974 Lotus Elite
To start off, 1992 Alfa Romeo 33 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Lotus Elite. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Lotus Elite would be higher. At 1,973 cc (4 cylinders), 1974 Lotus Elite is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Lotus Elite (142 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1992 Alfa Romeo 33. (87 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Lotus Elite should accelerate faster than 1992 Alfa Romeo 33. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Lotus Elite weights approximately 120 kg more than 1992 Alfa Romeo 33. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 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 1974 Lotus Elite. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1992 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, 1974 Lotus Elite (177 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 1992 Alfa Romeo 33. (124 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1974 Lotus Elite will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1992 Alfa Romeo 33.
Compare all specifications:
| 1992 Alfa Romeo 33 | 1974 Lotus Elite | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Lotus |
| Model | 33 | Elite |
| Year Released | 1992 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1351 cc | 1973 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 87 HP | 142 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 124 Nm | 177 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 940 kg | 1060 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4080 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1220 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2490 mm |
