2006 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 1986 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Lotus Esprit would be higher. At 2,198 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Lotus Esprit (215 HP) has 33 more horse power than 2006 Alfa Romeo 159. (182 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 2006 Alfa Romeo 159.
Because 1986 Lotus Esprit 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 1986 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 1986 Lotus Esprit (405 Nm) has 175 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Alfa Romeo 159. (230 Nm). This means 1986 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Alfa Romeo 159.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Alfa Romeo 159 | 1986 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Lotus |
| Model | 159 | Esprit |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1986 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2198 cc | 2174 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 182 HP | 215 HP |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 405 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.1 mm | 95.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94.6 mm | 76.2 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1120 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2440 mm |
