Italy vs UK — 1995 vs 1996
| GTV V6 3.0 24V Cup | Elise S1 1.8 | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 220 hp | 118 hp |
| Torque | 199 lb-ft | 122 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 2,959 cc | 1,796 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 6.7 sec | 5.5 sec |
| Top Speed | 149 mph | 125 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 15.1 sec | 14.2 sec |
| Weight | 3,021 lbs | 1,598 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,540 mm | 2,300 mm |
| Length | 4,285 mm | 3,726 mm |
| Units Produced | — | 10,746 |
| Original MSRP | $32,000 | $39,500 |
| Value (Excellent) | $28,000 | $48,000 |
| Collectibility | 5/10 | 8/10 |
| Rarity | 5/10 | 5/10 |
It's a closely fought contest. The 1995 Alfa Romeo GTV V6 3.0 24V Cup brings more power, higher top speed, better value to the table, and the 1996 Lotus Elise S1 1.8 answers with quicker acceleration, lighter weight, stronger collectibility. Both are excellent machines that reward their owners in different ways — there's no wrong answer here.
The rivalry between Italy and UK automotive industries has produced legendary matchups, and the 1995 Alfa Romeo GTV V6 3.0 24V Cup versus 1996 Lotus Elise S1 1.8 is among the most fascinating. These two cars represent the best of their national engineering schools. The 1995 Alfa Romeo GTV V6 3.0 24V Cup holds a clear advantage in raw power with 220 hp compared to 118 hp, a 102-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Alfa Romeo GTV uses a V6 DOHC displacing 2,959 cc, while the Lotus Elise relies on a Inline-4 DOHC with 1,796 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1996 Lotus Elise S1 1.8 edges ahead at 5.5 seconds versus 6.7 seconds. The Lotus Elise carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 1423 lbs lighter. On the collector market, the 1996 Lotus Elise S1 1.8 commands a significant premium over the 1995 Alfa Romeo GTV V6 3.0 24V Cup, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1996 Lotus Elise S1 1.8 rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.