2009 Lotus Elise vs. 1966 Lotus Europa
To start off, 2009 Lotus Elise is newer by 43 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 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Lotus Elise is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Lotus Elise (120 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1966 Lotus Europa. (76 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1966 Lotus Europa. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Lotus Elise weights approximately 272 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, 2009 Lotus Elise (168 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Lotus Europa. (103 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Lotus Elise will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Lotus Europa.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Lotus Elise | 1966 Lotus Europa | |
| Make | Lotus | Lotus |
| Model | Elise | Europa |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1966 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Middle | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1468 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 76 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 168 Nm | 103 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 76 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89.3 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 882 kg | 610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 3980 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1080 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2340 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 32 L | 45 L |
