1997 BMW 318 vs. 1966 Lotus Europa
To start off, 1997 BMW 318 is newer by 31 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 1,794 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW 318 (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1966 Lotus Europa. (76 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 1966 Lotus Europa. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 BMW 318 weights approximately 835 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, 1997 BMW 318 (168 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Lotus Europa. (103 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Lotus Europa.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW 318 | 1966 Lotus Europa | |
| Make | BMW | Lotus |
| Model | 318 | Europa |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1966 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1794 cc | 1468 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 76 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 168 Nm | 103 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1445 kg | 610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 3980 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1080 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2340 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 45 L |
