2003 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1971 Lotus Elan
To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 2,387 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 (189 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 63 more horse power than 1971 Lotus Elan. (126 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1971 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 640 kg more than 1971 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 Lotus Elan 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 1971 Lotus Elan. 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 (218 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Lotus Elan. (153 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Lotus Elan. 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 has automatic transmission and 1971 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1971 Lotus Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1971 Lotus Elan | |
Make | Alfa Romeo | Lotus |
Model | 156 | Elan |
Year Released | 2003 | 1971 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2387 cc | 1558 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 189 HP | 126 HP |
Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 218 Nm | 153 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 82.6 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 68.3 mm | 72.8 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 10.3:1 |
Top Speed | 227 km/hour | 193 km/hour |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1510 kg | 870 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4270 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1620 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1200 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2440 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 59 L |