1966 Lotus Europa vs. 2011 BMW 120
To start off, 2011 BMW 120 is newer by 45 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 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 BMW 120 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW 120 (168 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 92 more horse power than 1966 Lotus Europa. (76 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW 120 should accelerate faster than 1966 Lotus Europa. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW 120 weights approximately 915 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, 2011 BMW 120 (340 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 237 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Lotus Europa. (103 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2011 BMW 120 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Lotus Europa.
Compare all specifications:
| 1966 Lotus Europa | 2011 BMW 120 | |
| Make | Lotus | BMW |
| Model | Europa | 120 |
| Year Released | 1966 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1468 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 76 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 103 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 16.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 610 kg | 1525 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 4230 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1440 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1080 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 51 L |
