1960 Lotus Elite vs. 1972 Mercedes-Benz 450
To start off, 1972 Mercedes-Benz 450 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1960 Lotus Elite. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1960 Lotus Elite would be higher. At 4,519 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 Mercedes-Benz 450 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Mercedes-Benz 450 (217 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 134 more horse power than 1960 Lotus Elite. (83 HP @ 6400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1972 Mercedes-Benz 450 should accelerate faster than 1960 Lotus Elite. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Mercedes-Benz 450 weights approximately 1050 kg more than 1960 Lotus Elite. 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:
| 1960 Lotus Elite | 1972 Mercedes-Benz 450 | |
| Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Elite | 450 |
| Year Released | 1960 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1214 cc | 4519 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 217 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 580 kg | 1630 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3670 mm | 4760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1480 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1180 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2820 mm |
