1959 Lotus Seven vs. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380
To start off, 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Lotus Seven. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Lotus Seven would be higher. At 3,818 cc (8 cylinders), 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380 (219 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 145 more horse power than 1959 Lotus Seven. (74 HP @ 6250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380 should accelerate faster than 1959 Lotus Seven. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380 weights approximately 1120 kg more than 1959 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. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380 has automatic transmission and 1959 Lotus Seven has manual transmission. 1959 Lotus Seven will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 Lotus Seven | 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380 | |
| Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Seven | 380 |
| Year Released | 1959 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1098 cc | 3818 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 219 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 420 kg | 1540 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3280 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1350 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2470 mm |
