2005 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1966 Lotus Elan
To start off, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 39 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,970 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 (148 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1966 Lotus Elan. (104 HP @ 6250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1966 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 642 kg more than 1966 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1966 Lotus Elan 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 1966 Lotus Elan. 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1966 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Lotus |
| Model | 156 | Elan |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1966 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1558 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Top Speed | 214 km/hour | 190 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1338 kg | 696 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 3700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1180 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2240 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 45 L |
