1962 Lotus Elite vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz C

To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 46 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 2,987 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C (221 HP) has 138 more horse power than 1962 Lotus Elite. (83 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1962 Lotus Elite. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 995 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C (510 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 408 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 Lotus Elite. (102 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1962 Lotus Elite. 2008 Mercedes-Benz C 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. 2008 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1962 Lotus Elite 2008 Mercedes-Benz C
Make Lotus Mercedes-Benz
Model Elite C
Year Released 1962 2008
Body Type Coupe Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1215 cc 2987 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 83 HP 221 HP
Torque 102 Nm 510 Nm
Torque RPM 3750 RPM 1600 RPM
Engine Bore Size 76.2 mm 83 mm
Engine Stroke Size 66.7 mm 92 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 10.0:1 18.0:1
Top Speed 190 km/hour 246 km/hour
Drive Type Rear Rear
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 2 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 660 kg 1655 kg
Vehicle Length 3710 mm 4530 mm
Vehicle Width 1510 mm 1730 mm
Vehicle Height 1190 mm 1420 mm
Wheelbase Size 2240 mm 2720 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 29 L 62 L