1964 Lotus Seven vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 40 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1964 Lotus Seven. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1964 Lotus Seven would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK (161 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 123 more horse power than 1964 Lotus Seven. (38 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1964 Lotus Seven. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 833 kg more than 1964 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. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK has automatic transmission and 1964 Lotus Seven has manual transmission. 1964 Lotus Seven will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1964 Lotus Seven | 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Seven | SLK |
| Year Released | 1964 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 997 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 38 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 432 kg | 1265 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3360 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1100 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 29 L | 70 L |
