1966 Lotus Europa vs. 1971 Volkswagen K 70
To start off, 1971 Volkswagen K 70 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Lotus Europa. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Lotus Europa would be higher. At 1,604 cc (4 cylinders), 1971 Volkswagen K 70 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1966 Lotus Europa (76 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1971 Volkswagen K 70. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1966 Lotus Europa should accelerate faster than 1971 Volkswagen K 70. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Volkswagen K 70 weights approximately 440 kg more than 1966 Lotus Europa.
Let's talk about torque, 1971 Volkswagen K 70 (123 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Lotus Europa. (103 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1971 Volkswagen K 70 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Lotus Europa.
Compare all specifications:
| 1966 Lotus Europa | 1971 Volkswagen K 70 | |
| Make | Lotus | Volkswagen |
| Model | Europa | K 70 |
| Year Released | 1966 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1468 cc | 1604 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 76 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 103 Nm | 123 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 76 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 610 kg | 1050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1080 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 45 L |
