2009 Lotus Exige vs. 1972 Volkswagen SP2
To start off, 2009 Lotus Exige is newer by 37 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 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Lotus Exige is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Lotus Exige (189 HP @ 7800 RPM) has 115 more horse power than 1972 Volkswagen SP2. (74 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Lotus Exige should accelerate faster than 1972 Volkswagen SP2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Lotus Exige weights approximately 16 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, 2009 Lotus Exige (180 Nm @ 6800 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Volkswagen SP2. (130 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2009 Lotus Exige will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Volkswagen SP2.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Lotus Exige | 1972 Volkswagen SP2 | |
| Make | Lotus | Volkswagen |
| Model | Exige | SP2 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1677 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 130 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 6800 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.1 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 8.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 916 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3800 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1160 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2410 mm |
