2004 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1993 Lotus Elan
To start off, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 11 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 3,177 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 (238 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 1993 Lotus Elan. (164 HP @ 6600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1993 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 465 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.
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, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 (289 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 1993 Lotus Elan. (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1993 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1993 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Lotus |
| Model | 156 | Elan |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1993 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3177 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 238 HP | 164 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 289 Nm | 204 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1485 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 3810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2260 mm |
