2001 Alfa Romeo 145 vs. 1970 Lotus Seven
To start off, 2001 Alfa Romeo 145 is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Lotus Seven. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Lotus Seven would be higher. At 1,370 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Alfa Romeo 145 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Alfa Romeo 145 (103 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1970 Lotus Seven. (85 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Alfa Romeo 145 should accelerate faster than 1970 Lotus Seven. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Alfa Romeo 145 weights approximately 685 kg more than 1970 Lotus Seven. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1970 Lotus Seven 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 1970 Lotus Seven. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, both vehicles can yield 125 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Alfa Romeo 145 | 1970 Lotus Seven | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Lotus |
| Model | 145 | Seven |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1970 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1370 cc | 1340 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 103 HP | 85 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 125 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1275 kg | 590 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 3710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1110 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2240 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 34 L |
