1959 Lotus Elite vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz V
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz V is newer by 46 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Lotus Elite. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Lotus Elite would be higher. At 2,295 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz V is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz V (139 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 68 more horse power than 1959 Lotus Elite. (71 HP @ 6100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz V should accelerate faster than 1959 Lotus Elite. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz V weights approximately 1420 kg more than 1959 Lotus Elite. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1959 Lotus Elite is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1959 Lotus Elite. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz V, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 V (210 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 106 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Lotus Elite. (104 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz V will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Lotus Elite.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 Lotus Elite | 2005 Mercedes-Benz V | |
| Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Elite | V |
| Year Released | 1959 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1216 cc | 2295 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 71 HP | 139 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 104 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 580 kg | 2000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3710 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1190 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 3010 mm |
