2003 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1959 Lotus Elite
To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 44 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Lotus Elite. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Lotus Elite would be higher. At 1,596 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 (118 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1959 Lotus Elite. (71 HP @ 6100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1959 Lotus Elite. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 735 kg more than 1959 Lotus Elite. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1959 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 1959 Lotus Elite. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 (146 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Lotus Elite. (104 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Lotus Elite.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1959 Lotus Elite | |
Make | Alfa Romeo | Lotus |
Model | 156 | Elite |
Year Released | 2003 | 1959 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1596 cc | 1216 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 118 HP | 71 HP |
Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6100 RPM |
Torque | 146 Nm | 104 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3750 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
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 | 580 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 3710 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1510 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1190 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2240 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 29 L |