1966 Lotus Elan vs. 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 2,778 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL (168 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 1966 Lotus Elan. (104 HP @ 6250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1966 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 664 kg more than 1966 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:
| 1966 Lotus Elan | 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Elan | SL |
| Year Released | 1966 | 1971 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1558 cc | 2778 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 696 kg | 1360 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3700 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1180 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2410 mm |
