2005 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1957 Lotus Seven
To start off, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 48 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1957 Lotus Seven. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1957 Lotus Seven would be higher. At 1,969 cc, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 (173 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1957 Lotus Seven. (126 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1957 Lotus Seven. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 500 kg more than 1957 Lotus Seven. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1957 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 1957 Lotus Seven. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156, 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, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 (187 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 1957 Lotus Seven. (153 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1957 Lotus Seven.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1957 Lotus Seven | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Lotus |
| Model | 156 | Seven |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1957 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1969 cc | 1558 cc |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 126 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 187 Nm | 153 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 750 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2190 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 29 L |
