1974 BMW 3 vs. 1966 Lotus Europa
To start off, 1974 BMW 3 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Lotus Europa. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Lotus Europa would be higher. At 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1974 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 BMW 3 (200 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 124 more horse power than 1966 Lotus Europa. (76 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 1966 Lotus Europa. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 BMW 3 weights approximately 823 kg more than 1966 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, 1974 BMW 3 (270 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 167 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Lotus Europa. (103 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1974 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Lotus Europa.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 BMW 3 | 1966 Lotus Europa | |
| Make | BMW | Lotus |
| Model | 3 | Europa |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1966 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 1468 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 76 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 103 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 76 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1433 kg | 610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 3980 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1080 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2340 mm |
