1969 Lotus Europa vs. 2009 Volvo S40
To start off, 2009 Volvo S40 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 2,521 cc (5 cylinders), 2009 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volvo S40 (227 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 149 more horse power than 1969 Lotus Europa. (78 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1969 Lotus Europa. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volvo S40 weights approximately 727 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 Volvo S40 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 217 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Lotus Europa. (103 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Lotus Europa.
Compare all specifications:
| 1969 Lotus Europa | 2009 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Lotus | Volvo |
| Model | Europa | S40 |
| Year Released | 1969 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1470 cc | 2521 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 78 HP | 227 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 103 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 18.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 612 kg | 1339 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1460 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1080 mm | 1780 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 60 L |
