1968 Lotus Europa vs. 1998 Saturn SL
To start off, 1998 Saturn SL is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Lotus Europa. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Lotus Europa would be higher. At 1,901 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Saturn SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Saturn SL (100 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1968 Lotus Europa. (76 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Saturn SL should accelerate faster than 1968 Lotus Europa. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Saturn SL weights approximately 445 kg more than 1968 Lotus Europa. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1968 Lotus Europa is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1968 Lotus Europa. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Saturn SL, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1998 Saturn SL (159 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 Lotus Europa. (103 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1998 Saturn SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1968 Lotus Europa.
Compare all specifications:
| 1968 Lotus Europa | 1998 Saturn SL | |
| Make | Lotus | Saturn |
| Model | Europa | SL |
| Year Released | 1968 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1470 cc | 1901 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 76 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 103 Nm | 159 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 610 kg | 1055 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1080 mm | 1400 mm |
