2002 Lotus Elise vs. 1997 Alfa Romeo 146
To start off, 2002 Lotus Elise is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Alfa Romeo 146. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Alfa Romeo 146 would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Lotus Elise is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Lotus Elise (134 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 1997 Alfa Romeo 146. (103 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1997 Alfa Romeo 146. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Alfa Romeo 146 weights approximately 419 kg more than 2002 Lotus Elise.
Because 2002 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 2002 Lotus Elise. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Alfa Romeo 146, 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 Lotus Elise (175 Nm @ 4850 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Alfa Romeo 146. (134 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2002 Lotus Elise will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Alfa Romeo 146.
Compare all specifications:
2002 Lotus Elise | 1997 Alfa Romeo 146 | |
Make | Lotus | Alfa Romeo |
Model | Elise | 146 |
Year Released | 2002 | 1997 |
Engine Position | Middle | Front |
Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1596 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
Horse Power | 134 HP | 103 HP |
Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 175 Nm | 134 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4850 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 84 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 89.3 mm | 72 mm |
Top Speed | 208 km/hour | 183 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 756 kg | 1175 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 4260 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2550 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 38 L | 50 L |