1962 Lotus Elite vs. 1986 Mercedes-Benz 190
To start off, 1986 Mercedes-Benz 190 is newer by 24 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 2,299 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Mercedes-Benz 190 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Mercedes-Benz 190 (132 HP) has 49 more horse power than 1962 Lotus Elite. (83 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Mercedes-Benz 190 should accelerate faster than 1962 Lotus Elite. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Mercedes-Benz 190 weights approximately 560 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. Let's talk about torque, 1986 Mercedes-Benz 190 (198 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 96 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 Lotus Elite. (102 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1986 Mercedes-Benz 190 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1962 Lotus Elite.
Compare all specifications:
| 1962 Lotus Elite | 1986 Mercedes-Benz 190 | |
| Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Elite | 190 |
| Year Released | 1962 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1215 cc | 2299 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 132 HP |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 198 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 660 kg | 1220 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3710 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1190 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 29 L | 55 L |
