1969 Lotus Europa vs. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 43 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 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle (170 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 92 more horse power than 1969 Lotus Europa. (78 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1969 Lotus Europa. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 721 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, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 137 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Lotus Europa. (103 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Lotus Europa.
Compare all specifications:
| 1969 Lotus Europa | 2012 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Lotus | Volkswagen |
| Model | Europa | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1969 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1470 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 78 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 103 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 612 kg | 1333 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 4278 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1808 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1080 mm | 1486 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2537 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 55 L |
