1998 Alfa Romeo 166 vs. 1999 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 1999 Lotus Esprit is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Alfa Romeo 166. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Alfa Romeo 166 would be higher. At 3,506 cc (8 cylinders), 1999 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Lotus Esprit (349 HP) has 194 more horse power than 1998 Alfa Romeo 166. (155 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1998 Alfa Romeo 166. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Alfa Romeo 166 weights approximately 820 kg more than 1999 Lotus Esprit.
Because 1999 Lotus Esprit 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 1999 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Alfa Romeo 166, 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, 1999 Lotus Esprit (351 Nm) has 164 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Alfa Romeo 166. (187 Nm). This means 1999 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Alfa Romeo 166.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Alfa Romeo 166 | 1999 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Lotus |
| Model | 166 | Esprit |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 3506 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 155 HP | 349 HP |
| Torque | 187 Nm | 351 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1495 kg | 675 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1990 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1150 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2310 mm |
