2009 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 1999 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Lotus Esprit would be higher. At 3,506 cc (8 cylinders), 1999 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider weights approximately 170 kg more than 1999 Lotus Esprit.
Because 1999 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 1999 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, 1999 Lotus Esprit (542 Nm) has 253 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider. (289 Nm). This means 1999 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider | 1999 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Lotus |
| Model | Spider | Esprit |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 3179 cc | 3506 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 237 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 289 Nm | 542 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 242 km/hour | 268 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1548 kg | 1378 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4420 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1160 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2430 mm |
