1960 Lotus Elite vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz R

To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz R is newer by 49 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 2,987 cc, 2009 Mercedes-Benz R is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz R (221 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 150 more horse power than 1960 Lotus Elite. (71 HP @ 6100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz R should accelerate faster than 1960 Lotus Elite. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz R weights approximately 1716 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.

Because 2009 Mercedes-Benz R is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1960 Lotus Elite. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz R will offer significantly more control. 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz R (510 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 406 more torque (in Nm) than 1960 Lotus Elite. (104 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz R will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1960 Lotus Elite. 2009 Mercedes-Benz R has automatic transmission and 1960 Lotus Elite has manual transmission. 1960 Lotus Elite will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mercedes-Benz R will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1960 Lotus Elite 2009 Mercedes-Benz R
Make Lotus Mercedes-Benz
Model Elite R
Year Released 1960 2009
Body Type Coupe Minivan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1216 cc 2987 cc
Valves per Cylinder 2 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 71 HP 221 HP
Engine RPM 6100 RPM 3800 RPM
Torque 104 Nm 510 Nm
Torque RPM 3750 RPM 2800 RPM
Engine Bore Size 76.2 mm 83 mm
Engine Stroke Size 66.7 mm 92 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 10.0:1 17.7:1
Fuel Type Gasoline Diesel
Drive Type Rear 4WD
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 2 seats 6 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 582 kg 2298 kg
Vehicle Length 3770 mm 5180 mm
Vehicle Width 1510 mm 1670 mm
Vehicle Height 1200 mm 1930 mm
Wheelbase Size 2240 mm 3220 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 29 L 80 L