1996 Alfa Romeo 145 vs. 1962 Lotus Elite
To start off, 1996 Alfa Romeo 145 is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1962 Lotus Elite. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 Lotus Elite would be higher. At 1,747 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Alfa Romeo 145 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Alfa Romeo 145 (139 HP) has 56 more horse power than 1962 Lotus Elite. (83 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Alfa Romeo 145 should accelerate faster than 1962 Lotus Elite. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Alfa Romeo 145 weights approximately 540 kg more than 1962 Lotus Elite. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1962 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 1962 Lotus Elite. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Alfa Romeo 145, 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 Alfa Romeo 145 (165 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 63 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 Lotus Elite. (102 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1996 Alfa Romeo 145 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1962 Lotus Elite.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Alfa Romeo 145 | 1962 Lotus Elite | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Lotus |
| Model | 145 | Elite |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1962 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1747 cc | 1215 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 83 HP |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 102 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 76.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.7 mm | 66.7 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1200 kg | 660 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 3710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1510 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1190 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2240 mm |
