2003 Alfa Romeo 147 vs. 1979 Talbot Sunbeam-Lotus
To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo 147 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Talbot Sunbeam-Lotus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Talbot Sunbeam-Lotus would be higher. At 2,170 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Talbot Sunbeam-Lotus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Talbot Sunbeam-Lotus (150 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 2003 Alfa Romeo 147. (104 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Talbot Sunbeam-Lotus should accelerate faster than 2003 Alfa Romeo 147. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Alfa Romeo 147 weights approximately 305 kg more than 1979 Talbot Sunbeam-Lotus.
Because 1979 Talbot Sunbeam-Lotus 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 1979 Talbot Sunbeam-Lotus. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 1979 Talbot Sunbeam-Lotus (203 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 63 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Alfa Romeo 147. (140 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1979 Talbot Sunbeam-Lotus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Alfa Romeo 147.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alfa Romeo 147 | 1979 Talbot Sunbeam-Lotus | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Talbot |
| Model | 147 | Sunbeam-Lotus |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 2170 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Top Speed | 180 km/hour | 195 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1265 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4180 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1610 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2420 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 40 L |
