2005 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1984 Lotus Etna
To start off, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Lotus Etna. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Lotus Etna would be higher. At 3,946 cc (8 cylinders), 1984 Lotus Etna is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1984 Lotus Etna (331 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 158 more horse power than 2005 Alfa Romeo 156. (173 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1984 Lotus Etna should accelerate faster than 2005 Alfa Romeo 156.
Because 1984 Lotus Etna 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 1984 Lotus Etna. 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, 1984 Lotus Etna (408 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 221 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Alfa Romeo 156. (187 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1984 Lotus Etna will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Alfa Romeo 156.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1984 Lotus Etna | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Lotus |
| Model | 156 | Etna |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1984 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1969 cc | 3946 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 331 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 187 Nm | 408 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 95.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 69.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 11.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2520 mm |
