1962 Lotus Elite vs. 1970 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 1970 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1962 Lotus Elite. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 Lotus Elite would be higher. At 2,778 cc (6 cylinders), 1970 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1970 Mercedes-Benz SL (168 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 85 more horse power than 1962 Lotus Elite. (83 HP @ 6400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1970 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1962 Lotus Elite. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1970 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 780 kg more than 1962 Lotus Elite. 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1962 Lotus Elite | 1970 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Elite | SL |
| Year Released | 1962 | 1970 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1216 cc | 2778 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 580 kg | 1360 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3670 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1480 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1180 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2410 mm |
