1957 Lotus XI Le Mans vs. 1971 Mercedes-Benz 300
To start off, 1971 Mercedes-Benz 300 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1957 Lotus XI Le Mans. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1957 Lotus XI Le Mans would be higher. At 4,519 cc (8 cylinders), 1971 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Mercedes-Benz 300 (195 HP @ 4500 RPM) has 111 more horse power than 1957 Lotus XI Le Mans. (84 HP @ 6400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1971 Mercedes-Benz 300 should accelerate faster than 1957 Lotus XI Le Mans. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Mercedes-Benz 300 weights approximately 1345 kg more than 1957 Lotus XI Le Mans. 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1957 Lotus XI Le Mans | 1971 Mercedes-Benz 300 | |
| Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | XI Le Mans | 300 |
| Year Released | 1957 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1096 cc | 4519 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 84 HP | 195 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 72.4 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66.7 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 204 km/hour | 200 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 410 kg | 1755 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3540 mm | 5010 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1550 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 820 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2860 mm |
