2007 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 1981 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 2007 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Lotus Esprit would be higher. At 2,174 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 158 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. 2007 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 485 kg more than 1981 Lotus Esprit.
Because 1981 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 1981 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 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, 1981 Lotus Esprit (221 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Alfa Romeo 159. (190 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1981 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Alfa Romeo 159.
Compare all specifications:
2007 Alfa Romeo 159 | 1981 Lotus Esprit | |
Make | Alfa Romeo | Lotus |
Model | 159 | Esprit |
Year Released | 2007 | 1981 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Middle |
Engine Size | 1859 cc | 2174 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 158 HP | 158 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 190 Nm | 221 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 9.4:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1605 kg | 1120 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4200 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1870 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1120 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2440 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 67 L |