1963 Lotus Seven vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 40 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 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL (493 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 455 more horse power than 1963 Lotus Seven. (38 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1963 Lotus Seven. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 1525 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. 2003 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. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1963 Lotus Seven | 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Seven | SL |
| Year Released | 1963 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 997 cc | 5439 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 38 HP | 493 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| 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 | 1955 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3360 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1100 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 29 L | 80 L |
