1961 Lotus Seven vs. 1959 Mercedes-Benz 300
To start off, 1961 Lotus Seven is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 1959 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1959 Mercedes-Benz 300 (238 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 153 more horse power than 1961 Lotus Seven. (85 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1959 Mercedes-Benz 300 should accelerate faster than 1961 Lotus Seven. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1959 Mercedes-Benz 300 weights approximately 941 kg more than 1961 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Lotus Seven | 1959 Mercedes-Benz 300 | |
| Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Seven | 300 |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1959 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1340 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 238 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 444 kg | 1385 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3360 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1100 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 29 L | 100 L |
