1961 Lotus Seven vs. 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 is newer by 13 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 2,744 cc (6 cylinders), 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 (182 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 97 more horse power than 1961 Lotus Seven. (85 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 1961 Lotus Seven. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 1116 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. 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 has automatic transmission and 1961 Lotus Seven has manual transmission. 1961 Lotus Seven will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Lotus Seven | 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Seven | 280 |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1340 cc | 2744 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 444 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3360 mm | 4760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1100 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2830 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 29 L | 90 L |
