2008 Alfa Romeo 147 vs. 1988 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 2008 Alfa Romeo 147 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Lotus Esprit would be higher. At 3,179 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Alfa Romeo 147 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Alfa Romeo 147 (247 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 1988 Lotus Esprit. (172 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Alfa Romeo 147 should accelerate faster than 1988 Lotus Esprit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Alfa Romeo 147 weights approximately 184 kg more than 1988 Lotus Esprit. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 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 1988 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Alfa Romeo 147, 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, 2008 Alfa Romeo 147 (300 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 79 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Lotus Esprit. (221 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2008 Alfa Romeo 147 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Lotus Esprit.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Alfa Romeo 147 | 1988 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Lotus |
| Model | 147 | Esprit |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 3179 cc | 2174 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 172 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 1176 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1160 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2440 mm |
