1996 Lotus Elan vs. 1973 Alfa Romeo Alfetta
To start off, 1996 Lotus Elan is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Alfa Romeo Alfetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Alfa Romeo Alfetta would be higher. At 1,779 cc (4 cylinders), 1973 Alfa Romeo Alfetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Lotus Elan (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 1973 Alfa Romeo Alfetta. (122 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1973 Alfa Romeo Alfetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Alfa Romeo Alfetta weights approximately 60 kg more than 1996 Lotus Elan.
Because 1973 Alfa Romeo Alfetta 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 1973 Alfa Romeo Alfetta. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Lotus Elan, 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 Elan (204 Nm) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Alfa Romeo Alfetta. (176 Nm). This means 1996 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Alfa Romeo Alfetta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Lotus Elan | 1973 Alfa Romeo Alfetta | |
| Make | Lotus | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | Elan | Alfetta |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1779 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 122 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 204 Nm | 176 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1080 kg |
