2003 Alfa Romeo 166 vs. 1998 Lotus 340 R
To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Lotus 340 R. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Lotus 340 R 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 27 more horse power than 1998 Lotus 340 R. (190 HP @ 7800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 should accelerate faster than 1998 Lotus 340 R. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 weights approximately 875 kg more than 1998 Lotus 340 R. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 Lotus 340 R 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 1998 Lotus 340 R. 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. Let's talk about torque, 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 (265 Nm) has 67 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Lotus 340 R. (198 Nm). This means 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Lotus 340 R. 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 has automatic transmission and 1998 Lotus 340 R has manual transmission. 1998 Lotus 340 R 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 | 1998 Lotus 340 R | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Lotus |
| Model | 166 | 340 R |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2959 cc | 1795 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 7800 RPM |
| Torque | 265 Nm | 198 Nm |
| Top Speed | 236 km/hour | 209 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 675 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 3510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1130 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2320 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 69 L | 72 L |
