1997 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 1963 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1963 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1963 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,970 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider (155 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1963 Lotus Elan. (100 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider should accelerate faster than 1963 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider weights approximately 776 kg more than 1963 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1963 Lotus Elan 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 1963 Lotus Elan. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider, 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, 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider (187 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 1963 Lotus Elan. (138 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1963 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Alfa Romeo Spider | 1963 Lotus Elan | |
Make | Alfa Romeo | Lotus |
Model | Spider | Elan |
Year Released | 1997 | 1963 |
Body Type | Roadster | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1498 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 155 HP | 100 HP |
Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5700 RPM |
Torque | 187 Nm | 138 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3750 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 83.1 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 72.7 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1370 kg | 594 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3700 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1430 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1150 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2140 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 45 L |