1996 BMW M3 vs. 1969 Lotus Europa
To start off, 1996 BMW M3 is newer by 27 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 3,001 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW M3 (326 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 248 more horse power than 1969 Lotus Europa. (78 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1969 Lotus Europa. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW M3 weights approximately 976 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, 1996 BMW M3 (305 Nm) has 202 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Lotus Europa. (103 Nm). This means 1996 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Lotus Europa.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW M3 | 1969 Lotus Europa | |
| Make | BMW | Lotus |
| Model | M3 | Europa |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1969 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 3001 cc | 1470 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 326 HP | 78 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 103 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.2 mm | 76 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.9 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1588 kg | 612 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 3980 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1080 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2340 mm |
