2009 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 1966 Lotus Elan
To start off, 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 43 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,859 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 (158 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 1966 Lotus Elan. (104 HP @ 6250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1966 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 895 kg more than 1966 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1966 Lotus Elan 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 1966 Lotus Elan. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 | 1966 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Lotus |
| Model | 159 | Elan |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1966 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1859 cc | 1556 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1555 kg | 660 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 3700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1150 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2140 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 29 L |
