1959 Lotus Seven vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 43 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 5,441 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL (494 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 458 more horse power than 1959 Lotus Seven. (36 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1959 Lotus Seven. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 1435 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. 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL 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. 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1959 Lotus Seven | 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Seven | SL |
Year Released | 1959 | 2002 |
Body Type | Roadster | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 947 cc | 5441 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
Horse Power | 36 HP | 494 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6100 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 440 kg | 1875 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3280 mm | 4540 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1350 mm | 1860 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2570 mm |