2002 Alfa Romeo 147 vs. 1969 Lotus Elan
To start off, 2002 Alfa Romeo 147 is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Alfa Romeo 147 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1969 Lotus Elan (116 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 2002 Alfa Romeo 147. (104 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1969 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 2002 Alfa Romeo 147. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Alfa Romeo 147 weights approximately 485 kg more than 1969 Lotus Elan.
Because 1969 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 1969 Lotus Elan. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Alfa Romeo 147, 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 146 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:
| 2002 Alfa Romeo 147 | 1969 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Lotus |
| Model | 147 | Elan |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1969 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1558 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 116 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 146 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.7 mm | 72.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 10.3:1 |
| 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 | 1335 kg | 850 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4180 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 45 L |
