1960 Lotus Elite vs. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380
To start off, 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380 is newer by 20 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 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 136 more horse power than 1960 Lotus Elite. (83 HP @ 6400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380 should accelerate faster than 1960 Lotus Elite. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380 weights approximately 960 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 | 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380 | |
| Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Elite | 380 |
| Year Released | 1960 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1214 cc | 3818 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 219 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 580 kg | 1540 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3670 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1480 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1180 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2470 mm |
