2009 Lotus Elise vs. 1998 Alfa Romeo 146
To start off, 2009 Lotus Elise is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Alfa Romeo 146. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Alfa Romeo 146 would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Lotus Elise is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Lotus Elise (218 HP @ 8000 RPM) has 115 more horse power than 1998 Alfa Romeo 146. (103 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1998 Alfa Romeo 146. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Alfa Romeo 146 weights approximately 225 kg more than 2009 Lotus Elise.
Because 2009 Lotus Elise 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 2009 Lotus Elise. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Alfa Romeo 146, 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 Lotus Elise (212 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 78 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Alfa Romeo 146. (134 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2009 Lotus Elise will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Alfa Romeo 146.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Lotus Elise | 1998 Alfa Romeo 146 | |
Make | Lotus | Alfa Romeo |
Model | Elise | 146 |
Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
Engine Position | Middle | Front |
Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1596 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
Horse Power | 218 HP | 103 HP |
Engine RPM | 8000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 212 Nm | 134 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 1175 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 4260 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2550 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 50 L |