UK vs UK — 1972 vs 2006
| Europa Special Twin Cam | Europa S SE | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 126 hp | 225 hp |
| Torque | — | 221 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 1,558 cc | 1,998 cc |
| 0-60 mph | — | 5.1 sec |
| Top Speed | — | 155 mph |
| ¼ Mile | — | 13.5 sec |
| Weight | — | 2,194 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,337 mm | 2,300 mm |
| Length | 3,990 mm | 4,290 mm |
| Units Produced | — | 600 |
| Original MSRP | — | $53,500 |
| Value (Excellent) | $75,000 | $45,000 |
| Collectibility | 5/10 | 5/10 |
| Rarity | 10/10 | 6/10 |
It's a closely fought contest. The 1972 Lotus Europa Special Twin Cam brings its unique character to the table, and the 2006 Lotus Europa S SE answers with more power. Both are excellent machines that reward their owners in different ways — there's no wrong answer here.
Few model names carry as much weight as the Lotus Europa. The 1972 and 2006 iterations represent different chapters in this storied nameplate's history, each reflecting the priorities and technologies of its era. The 2006 Lotus Europa S SE holds a clear advantage in raw power with 225 hp compared to 126 hp, a 99-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Lotus Europa uses a Inline-4 displacing 1,558 cc, while the Lotus Europa S relies on a Inline-4 DOHC Turbo with 1,998 cc. Each of these machines offers a unique window into the era that produced it, making both worthy of consideration by collectors and drivers alike.