2009 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 1969 Lotus Seven
To start off, 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 40 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 Lotus Seven. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Lotus Seven would be higher. At 2,198 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 (183 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 69 more horse power than 1969 Lotus Seven. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1969 Lotus Seven. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 1039 kg more than 1969 Lotus Seven. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1969 Lotus Seven 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 1969 Lotus Seven. 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. Let's talk about torque, 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 (230 Nm) has 107 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Lotus Seven. (123 Nm). This means 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Lotus Seven.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Alfa Romeo 159 | 1969 Lotus Seven | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Lotus |
| Model | 159 | Seven |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1969 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2198 cc | 1558 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 183 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 123 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94.6 mm | 77.6 mm |
| 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 | 1615 kg | 576 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 3380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 950 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2240 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 45 L |
