1962 Lotus Elan vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz R
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz R is newer by 43 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 2,987 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz R is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz R (221 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 121 more horse power than 1962 Lotus Elan. (100 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz R should accelerate faster than 1962 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz R weights approximately 1680 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz R is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1962 Lotus Elan. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz R 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. Let's talk about torque, 2005 Mercedes-Benz R (511 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 373 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 Lotus Elan. (138 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz R will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1962 Lotus Elan. 2005 Mercedes-Benz R has automatic transmission and 1962 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1962 Lotus Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Mercedes-Benz R will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1962 Lotus Elan | 2005 Mercedes-Benz R | |
| Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Elan | R |
| Year Released | 1962 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1496 cc | 2987 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 221 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 138 Nm | 511 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.7 mm | 92 mm |
| Top Speed | 185 km/hour | 215 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 590 kg | 2270 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3700 mm | 5160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1660 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2140 mm | 3220 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 80 L |
