1962 Lotus Elite vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 41 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK (161 HP) has 78 more horse power than 1962 Lotus Elite. (83 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1962 Lotus Elite. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 630 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK (234 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 132 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 Lotus Elite. (102 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1962 Lotus Elite. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK has automatic transmission and 1962 Lotus Elite has manual transmission. 1962 Lotus Elite will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1962 Lotus Elite | 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Elite | SLK |
| Year Released | 1962 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1215 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 161 HP |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 234 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.2 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66.7 mm | 78.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 660 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3710 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1190 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 29 L | 70 L |
