1965 Lotus Elan vs. 1942 Mercedes-Benz 500
To start off, 1965 Lotus Elan is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1942 Mercedes-Benz 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1942 Mercedes-Benz 500 would be higher. At 5,401 cc (8 cylinders), 1942 Mercedes-Benz 500 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1942 Mercedes-Benz 500 (177 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 73 more horse power than 1965 Lotus Elan. (104 HP @ 6250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1942 Mercedes-Benz 500 should accelerate faster than 1965 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1942 Mercedes-Benz 500 weights approximately 1740 kg more than 1965 Lotus Elan. 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1965 Lotus Elan | 1942 Mercedes-Benz 500 | |
| Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Elan | 500 |
| Year Released | 1965 | 1942 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1558 cc | 5401 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 177 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 660 kg | 2400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3700 mm | 5160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1590 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2140 mm | 3300 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 120 L |
