2002 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1974 Lotus Elite
To start off, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Lotus Elite. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Lotus Elite would be higher. At 1,973 cc (4 cylinders), 1974 Lotus Elite is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Lotus Elite (142 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. (138 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Lotus Elite should accelerate faster than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 255 kg more than 1974 Lotus Elite.
Because 1974 Lotus Elite 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 1974 Lotus Elite. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156, 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, 1974 Lotus Elite (177 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. (163 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 1974 Lotus Elite will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1974 Lotus Elite | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Lotus |
| Model | 156 | Elite |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1747 cc | 1973 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 142 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 163 Nm | 177 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 95.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.7 mm | 69.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 8.4:1 |
| Top Speed | 208 km/hour | 190 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1315 kg | 1060 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1220 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2490 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 67 L |
