1965 Lotus Elan vs. 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300
To start off, 1965 Lotus Elan is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 (215 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 111 more horse power than 1965 Lotus Elan. (104 HP @ 6250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 should accelerate faster than 1965 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 weights approximately 633 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 | 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 | |
| Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Elan | 300 |
| Year Released | 1965 | 1955 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1558 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 660 kg | 1293 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3700 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2140 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 100 L |
