1969 Lotus Europa vs. 1972 NSU 1000
To start off, 1972 NSU 1000 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 Lotus Europa. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Lotus Europa would be higher. At 1,470 cc (4 cylinders), 1969 Lotus Europa is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1969 Lotus Europa (78 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1972 NSU 1000. (38 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1969 Lotus Europa should accelerate faster than 1972 NSU 1000. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 NSU 1000 weights approximately 48 kg more than 1969 Lotus Europa.
Let's talk about torque, 1969 Lotus Europa (103 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 NSU 1000. (70 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1969 Lotus Europa will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 NSU 1000.
Compare all specifications:
| 1969 Lotus Europa | 1972 NSU 1000 | |
| Make | Lotus | NSU |
| Model | Europa | 1000 |
| Year Released | 1969 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1470 cc | 996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 78 HP | 38 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 103 Nm | 70 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 612 kg | 660 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 3800 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1500 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1080 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2260 mm |
