2002 Alfa Romeo 147 vs. 1998 Lotus Elise
To start off, 2002 Alfa Romeo 147 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Lotus Elise. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Lotus Elise would be higher. At 1,970 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Alfa Romeo 147 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Alfa Romeo 147 (148 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1998 Lotus Elise. (116 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Alfa Romeo 147 should accelerate faster than 1998 Lotus Elise. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Alfa Romeo 147 weights approximately 620 kg more than 1998 Lotus Elise. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 Lotus Elise 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 1998 Lotus Elise. 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 (181 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Lotus Elise. (165 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2002 Alfa Romeo 147 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Lotus Elise.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Alfa Romeo 147 | 1998 Lotus Elise | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Lotus |
| Model | 147 | Elise |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 116 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 181 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 89.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | 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 | 1325 kg | 705 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4180 mm | 3730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1210 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2310 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.9 L/100km | 13.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 40 L |
