2003 Alpina Roadster vs. 1993 Lotus Elan
To start off, 2003 Alpina Roadster is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1993 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1993 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 3,346 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Alpina Roadster is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Alpina Roadster (301 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 137 more horse power than 1993 Lotus Elan. (164 HP @ 6600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alpina Roadster should accelerate faster than 1993 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Alpina Roadster weights approximately 606 kg more than 1993 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Alpina Roadster 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 2003 Alpina Roadster. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1993 Lotus Elan, 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 Alpina Roadster (362 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 158 more torque (in Nm) than 1993 Lotus Elan. (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2003 Alpina Roadster will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1993 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alpina Roadster | 1993 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Alpina | Lotus |
| Model | Roadster | Elan |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1993 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3346 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 301 HP | 164 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 362 Nm | 204 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1626 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 3810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2260 mm |
