2005 Alfa Romeo 166 vs. 1992 Lotus Elan
To start off, 2005 Alfa Romeo 166 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1992 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1992 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 2,492 cc (5 cylinders), 2005 Alfa Romeo 166 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Alfa Romeo 166 (173 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1992 Lotus Elan. (163 HP @ 6600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Alfa Romeo 166 should accelerate faster than 1992 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Alfa Romeo 166 weights approximately 595 kg more than 1992 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, 2005 Alfa Romeo 166 (385 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 181 more torque (in Nm) than 1992 Lotus Elan. (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2005 Alfa Romeo 166 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1992 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Alfa Romeo 166 | 1992 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Lotus |
| Model | 166 | Elan |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1992 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2492 cc | 1587 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 385 Nm | 204 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | 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 | 1615 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 3810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2260 mm |
