2009 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 1988 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider is newer by 21 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 3,195 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider (256 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 1988 Lotus Esprit. (215 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider should accelerate faster than 1988 Lotus Esprit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider weights approximately 577 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, 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider, 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 Spider (322 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Lotus Esprit. (298 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Lotus Esprit.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Alfa Romeo Spider | 1988 Lotus Esprit | |
Make | Alfa Romeo | Lotus |
Model | Spider | Esprit |
Year Released | 2009 | 1988 |
Body Type | Roadster | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Middle |
Engine Size | 3195 cc | 2174 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 256 HP | 215 HP |
Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 322 Nm | 298 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4250 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 95.3 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 85.6 mm | 76.2 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 8.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1765 kg | 1188 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4350 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1870 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1160 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2440 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 69 L | 31 L |