1961 Lotus Seven vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS is newer by 47 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 2,985 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS (221 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 136 more horse power than 1961 Lotus Seven. (85 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS should accelerate faster than 1961 Lotus Seven. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS weights approximately 1371 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. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS 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. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Lotus Seven | 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS | |
| Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Seven | CLS |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1340 cc | 2985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 221 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 444 kg | 1815 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3360 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1100 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 29 L | 80 L |
