2003 Alfa Romeo 166 vs. 1959 Lotus Seven
To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 is newer by 44 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Lotus Seven. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Lotus Seven would be higher. At 2,959 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 (217 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 143 more horse power than 1959 Lotus Seven. (74 HP @ 6250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 should accelerate faster than 1959 Lotus Seven. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 weights approximately 1130 kg more than 1959 Lotus Seven. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1959 Lotus Seven 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 Seven. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo 166, 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. 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 has automatic transmission and 1959 Lotus Seven has manual transmission. 1959 Lotus Seven will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 | 1959 Lotus Seven | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Lotus |
| Model | 166 | Seven |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1959 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2959 cc | 1098 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 420 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 3280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1350 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1120 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2240 mm |
