1961 Lotus Seven vs. 1964 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 1964 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Lotus Seven. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Lotus Seven would be higher. At 2,306 cc (6 cylinders), 1964 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1964 Mercedes-Benz SL (148 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 110 more horse power than 1961 Lotus Seven. (38 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1964 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1961 Lotus Seven. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1964 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 870 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 | 1964 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Seven | SL |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1964 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 997 cc | 2306 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 38 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 432 kg | 1302 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3360 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1100 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2410 mm |
