1957 Lotus Seven vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK is newer by 48 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1957 Lotus Seven. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1957 Lotus Seven would be higher. At 2,683 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK (160 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1957 Lotus Seven. (126 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK should accelerate faster than 1957 Lotus Seven. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 825 kg more than 1957 Lotus Seven. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 87 more torque (in Nm) than 1957 Lotus Seven. (153 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1957 Lotus Seven.
Compare all specifications:
| 1957 Lotus Seven | 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK | |
| Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Seven | CLK |
| Year Released | 1957 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1558 cc | 2683 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 126 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 153 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 161 km/hour | 236 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 750 kg | 1575 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3370 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 950 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2190 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 29 L | 62 L |
