1969 Lotus Europa vs. 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 34 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 1,983 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle (113 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1969 Lotus Europa. (78 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1969 Lotus Europa. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 788 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, 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle (165 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 62 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Lotus Europa. (103 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Lotus Europa.
Compare all specifications:
| 1969 Lotus Europa | 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Lotus | Volkswagen |
| Model | Europa | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1969 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1470 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 78 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 103 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 612 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1080 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 55 L |
