1969 Lotus Europa vs. 2001 Volkswagen W12
To start off, 2001 Volkswagen W12 is newer by 32 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 5,998 cc (12 cylinders), 2001 Volkswagen W12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Volkswagen W12 (590 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 512 more horse power than 1969 Lotus Europa. (78 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Volkswagen W12 should accelerate faster than 1969 Lotus Europa. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Volkswagen W12 weights approximately 588 kg more than 1969 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, 2001 Volkswagen W12 (620 Nm @ 5800 RPM) has 517 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Lotus Europa. (103 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2001 Volkswagen W12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Lotus Europa.
Compare all specifications:
| 1969 Lotus Europa | 2001 Volkswagen W12 | |
| Make | Lotus | Volkswagen |
| Model | Europa | W12 |
| Year Released | 1969 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Middle | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1470 cc | 5998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | W |
| Horse Power | 78 HP | 590 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 103 Nm | 620 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 12.0:1 |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 612 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 4560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1080 mm | 1110 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2520 mm |
