2007 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 1982 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 2007 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Lotus Esprit would be higher. At 2,387 cc (5 cylinders), 2007 Alfa Romeo 159 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Alfa Romeo 159 (198 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1982 Lotus Esprit. (158 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1982 Lotus Esprit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 688 kg more than 1982 Lotus Esprit. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1982 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 1982 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, 2007 Alfa Romeo 159 (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 179 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Lotus Esprit. (221 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2007 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Lotus Esprit.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Alfa Romeo 159 | 1982 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Lotus |
| Model | 159 | Esprit |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1982 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2387 cc | 2172 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 198 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 95.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 76.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.6 seconds | 7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1755 kg | 1067 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1120 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2490 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7 L/100km | 9.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 31 L |
