1966 Lotus Europa vs. 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 41 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 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL (493 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 417 more horse power than 1966 Lotus Europa. (76 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1966 Lotus Europa. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 1346 kg more than 1966 Lotus Europa. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Let's talk about torque, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL (800 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 697 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Lotus Europa. (103 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Lotus Europa.
Compare all specifications:
| 1966 Lotus Europa | 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Europa | SL |
| Year Released | 1966 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1468 cc | 5513 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 76 HP | 493 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 103 Nm | 800 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 610 kg | 1956 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1080 mm | 1830 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 90 L |
