2004 Alfa Romeo 147 vs. 1989 Lotus Elan
To start off, 2004 Alfa Romeo 147 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Alfa Romeo 147 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Lotus Elan (165 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 2004 Alfa Romeo 147. (118 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 2004 Alfa Romeo 147. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Alfa Romeo 147 weights approximately 186 kg more than 1989 Lotus Elan.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1989 Lotus Elan (201 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Alfa Romeo 147. (146 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1989 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Alfa Romeo 147.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Alfa Romeo 147 | 1989 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Lotus |
| Model | 147 | Elan |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 165 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 201 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 80.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.7 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 8.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1206 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 3810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2260 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 65 L |
