1960 Lotus Seven vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 49 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1960 Lotus Seven. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1960 Lotus Seven would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK (300 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 264 more horse power than 1960 Lotus Seven. (36 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1960 Lotus Seven. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 875 kg more than 1960 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. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK has automatic transmission and 1960 Lotus Seven has manual transmission. 1960 Lotus Seven will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1960 Lotus Seven | 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Seven | SLK |
| Year Released | 1960 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 946 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 36 HP | 300 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 435 kg | 1310 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3360 mm | 4110 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1100 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 29 L | 70 L |
