1962 Lotus Elan vs. 1984 Mercedes-Benz 300
To start off, 1984 Mercedes-Benz 300 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1962 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 2,998 cc (5 cylinders), 1984 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1984 Mercedes-Benz 300 (125 HP) has 25 more horse power than 1962 Lotus Elan. (100 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1984 Mercedes-Benz 300 should accelerate faster than 1962 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1984 Mercedes-Benz 300 weights approximately 820 kg more than 1962 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1962 Lotus Elan is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1962 Lotus Elan. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1984 Mercedes-Benz 300, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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. Let's talk about torque, 1984 Mercedes-Benz 300 (245 Nm) has 107 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 Lotus Elan. (138 Nm). This means 1984 Mercedes-Benz 300 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1962 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1962 Lotus Elan | 1984 Mercedes-Benz 300 | |
| Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Elan | 300 |
| Year Released | 1962 | 1984 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1496 cc | 2998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 125 HP |
| Torque | 138 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 90.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.7 mm | 92.5 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 590 kg | 1410 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3700 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2140 mm | 2800 mm |
