1961 Lotus Seven vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz CL
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CL is newer by 51 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 4,700 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz CL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CL (429 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 391 more horse power than 1961 Lotus Seven. (38 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CL should accelerate faster than 1961 Lotus Seven. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz CL weights approximately 1663 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.
Because 2012 Mercedes-Benz CL is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1961 Lotus Seven. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CL will offer significantly more control. 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. 2012 Mercedes-Benz CL 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. 2012 Mercedes-Benz CL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Lotus Seven | 2012 Mercedes-Benz CL | |
| Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Seven | CL |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 997 cc | 4700 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 38 HP | 429 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 432 kg | 2095 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3360 mm | 5095 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1872 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1100 mm | 1417 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2954 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 29 L | 90 L |
