1965 Lotus Elan vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS is newer by 47 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 4,663 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS (402 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 298 more horse power than 1965 Lotus Elan. (104 HP @ 6250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS should accelerate faster than 1965 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS weights approximately 1075 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. 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS 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. 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1965 Lotus Elan | 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS | |
| Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Elan | CLS |
| Year Released | 1965 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1558 cc | 4663 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 402 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 660 kg | 1735 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3700 mm | 4940 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1882 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1417 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2140 mm | 2875 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 80 L |
