1963 Lotus Seven vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1963 Lotus Seven. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1963 Lotus Seven would be higher. At 4,973 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL (317 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 279 more horse power than 1963 Lotus Seven. (38 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1963 Lotus Seven. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 1410 kg more than 1963 Lotus Seven. 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. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1963 Lotus Seven has manual transmission. 1963 Lotus Seven will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1963 Lotus Seven | 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Seven | SL |
| Year Released | 1963 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 997 cc | 4973 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 38 HP | 317 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 430 kg | 1840 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3360 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1100 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 29 L | 80 L |
