1966 Lotus Europa vs. 1981 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1981 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 15 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 1,468 cc (4 cylinders), 1966 Lotus Europa is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1966 Lotus Europa (76 HP) has 17 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Passat. (59 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1966 Lotus Europa should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 330 kg more than 1966 Lotus Europa.
Let's talk about torque, 1966 Lotus Europa (103 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 3 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Passat. (100 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1966 Lotus Europa will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1966 Lotus Europa | 1981 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Lotus | Volkswagen |
| Model | Europa | Passat |
| Year Released | 1966 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1468 cc | 1295 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 76 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 103 Nm | 100 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 73.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 610 kg | 940 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1080 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2560 mm |
