1962 Lotus Elan vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 41 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 2,597 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E (160 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 1962 Lotus Elan. (100 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1962 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 1130 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.
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. Let's talk about torque, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E (241 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 103 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 Lotus Elan. (138 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1962 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1962 Lotus Elan | 2003 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Elan | E |
| Year Released | 1962 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1496 cc | 2597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 138 Nm | 241 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.7 mm | 68.2 mm |
| Top Speed | 185 km/hour | 223 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 590 kg | 1720 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3700 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2140 mm | 3090 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 70 L |
