1972 Volkswagen SP2 vs. 2012 Lotus Exige
To start off, 2012 Lotus Exige is newer by 40 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Volkswagen SP2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Volkswagen SP2 would be higher. At 1,800 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Lotus Exige is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Lotus Exige (240 HP @ 8000 RPM) has 165 more horse power than 1972 Volkswagen SP2. (75 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Lotus Exige should accelerate faster than 1972 Volkswagen SP2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Lotus Exige weights approximately 52 kg more than 1972 Volkswagen SP2. 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 Lotus Exige (230 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 110 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Volkswagen SP2. (120 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Lotus Exige will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Volkswagen SP2.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Volkswagen SP2 | 2012 Lotus Exige | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Lotus |
| Model | SP2 | Exige |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1679 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 75 HP | 240 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 8000 RPM |
| Torque | 120 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 890 kg | 942 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 3797 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1727 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1160 mm | 1158 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2299 mm |
