2003 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1996 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Lotus Esprit would be higher. At 2,174 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Lotus Esprit (285 HP) has 167 more horse power than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. (118 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156.
Because 1996 Lotus Esprit 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 1996 Lotus Esprit. 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, 1996 Lotus Esprit (510 Nm) has 370 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. (140 Nm). This means 1996 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1996 Lotus Esprit | |
Make | Alfa Romeo | Lotus |
Model | 156 | Esprit |
Year Released | 2003 | 1996 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Middle |
Engine Size | 1598 cc | 2174 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 118 HP | 285 HP |
Torque | 140 Nm | 510 Nm |
Engine Bore Size | 82.1 mm | 95.3 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 75.6 mm | 76.2 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 8.0:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4430 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1840 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1150 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2420 mm |