1964 Lotus Elan vs. 1999 Mercedes-Benz ML
To start off, 1999 Mercedes-Benz ML is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1964 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1964 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 2,688 cc (5 cylinders), 1999 Mercedes-Benz ML is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Mercedes-Benz ML (161 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 1964 Lotus Elan. (100 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 1964 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 890 kg more than 1964 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 Mercedes-Benz ML is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1964 Lotus Elan. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Mercedes-Benz ML will offer significantly more control. 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, 1999 Mercedes-Benz ML (400 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 262 more torque (in Nm) than 1964 Lotus Elan. (138 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1999 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1964 Lotus Elan. 1999 Mercedes-Benz ML has automatic transmission and 1964 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1964 Lotus Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Mercedes-Benz ML will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1964 Lotus Elan | 1999 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
| Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Elan | ML |
| Year Released | 1964 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 2688 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 138 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.7 mm | 88.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 185 km/hour | 183 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 590 kg | 1480 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3700 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1830 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2140 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 72 L |
