2002 Alfa Romeo 147 vs. 1981 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 2002 Alfa Romeo 147 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Lotus Esprit would be higher. At 2,172 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Lotus Esprit (208 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 2002 Alfa Romeo 147. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Lotus Esprit 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 90 kg more than 1981 Lotus Esprit.
Because 1981 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 1981 Lotus Esprit. 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, 2002 Alfa Romeo 147 (305 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Lotus Esprit. (277 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2002 Alfa Romeo 147 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Lotus Esprit.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Alfa Romeo 147 | 1981 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Lotus |
| Model | 147 | Esprit |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1910 cc | 2172 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 208 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 277 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | 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 | 1290 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4180 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1120 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 71 L |
