2005 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 1969 Lotus Elan
To start off, 2005 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,910 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Alfa Romeo 159 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 118 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 606 kg more than 1969 Lotus Elan.
Because 1969 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 1969 Lotus Elan. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Alfa Romeo 159, 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 159 (289 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 143 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Lotus Elan. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2005 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Alfa Romeo 159 | 1969 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Lotus |
| Model | 159 | Elan |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1969 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1910 cc | 1558 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 289 Nm | 146 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 72.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 191 km/hour | 190 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1495 kg | 889 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 59 L |
