1966 Lotus Europa vs. 1958 Wartburg 312
To start off, 1966 Lotus Europa is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1958 Wartburg 312. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 Wartburg 312 would be higher. At 1,468 cc (4 cylinders), 1966 Lotus Europa is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1966 Lotus Europa (76 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1958 Wartburg 312. (36 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1966 Lotus Europa should accelerate faster than 1958 Wartburg 312. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1958 Wartburg 312 weights approximately 350 kg more than 1966 Lotus Europa.
Let's talk about torque, 1966 Lotus Europa (103 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 1958 Wartburg 312. (82 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 1966 Lotus Europa will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1958 Wartburg 312.
Compare all specifications:
| 1966 Lotus Europa | 1958 Wartburg 312 | |
| Make | Lotus | Wartburg |
| Model | Europa | 312 |
| Year Released | 1966 | 1958 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1468 cc | 900 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 76 HP | 36 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 103 Nm | 82 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76 mm | 70 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 78 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 610 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1580 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2460 mm |
