1969 Lotus Europa vs. 2009 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 40 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 1,598 cc, 2009 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 3 (104 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1969 Lotus Europa. (78 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1969 Lotus Europa. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 3 weights approximately 580 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, 2009 Mazda 3 (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Lotus Europa. (103 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Lotus Europa.
Compare all specifications:
| 1969 Lotus Europa | 2009 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Lotus | Mazda |
| Model | Europa | 3 |
| Year Released | 1969 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1470 cc | 1598 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 78 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 103 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 612 kg | 1192 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1080 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 55 L |
