1961 Lotus Elite vs. 1989 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 1989 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Lotus Elite. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Lotus Elite would be higher. At 2,599 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mercedes-Benz S (164 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 81 more horse power than 1961 Lotus Elite. (83 HP @ 6400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1961 Lotus Elite. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 940 kg more than 1961 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:
| 1961 Lotus Elite | 1989 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Elite | S |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1216 cc | 2599 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 164 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 580 kg | 1520 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3670 mm | 5030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1480 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1180 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2950 mm |
