1968 Lotus Europa vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 35 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 1,470 cc (4 cylinders), 1968 Lotus Europa is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz A (80 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1968 Lotus Europa. (76 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1968 Lotus Europa. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 410 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz A, 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz A (130 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 Lotus Europa. (103 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1968 Lotus Europa.
Compare all specifications:
1968 Lotus Europa | 2003 Mercedes-Benz A | |
Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Europa | A |
Year Released | 1968 | 2003 |
Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Middle | Front |
Engine Size | 1470 cc | 1397 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 76 HP | 80 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 103 Nm | 130 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 11.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 610 kg | 1020 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 3790 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1080 mm | 1590 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2600 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 54 L |