1965 Lotus Elan vs. 1992 Mercedes-Benz 420
To start off, 1992 Mercedes-Benz 420 is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1965 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1965 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 4,196 cc (8 cylinders), 1992 Mercedes-Benz 420 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1992 Mercedes-Benz 420 (296 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 192 more horse power than 1965 Lotus Elan. (104 HP @ 6250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1992 Mercedes-Benz 420 should accelerate faster than 1965 Lotus Elan.
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. 1992 Mercedes-Benz 420 has automatic transmission and 1965 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1965 Lotus Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1992 Mercedes-Benz 420 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1965 Lotus Elan | 1992 Mercedes-Benz 420 | |
| Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Elan | 420 |
| Year Released | 1965 | 1992 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1558 cc | 4196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 296 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3700 mm | 5070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1920 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2140 mm | 2500 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 100 L |
