1966 Lotus Elan vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 30 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 5,987 cc (12 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL (376 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 272 more horse power than 1966 Lotus Elan. (104 HP @ 6250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1966 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 1104 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. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1966 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1966 Lotus Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1966 Lotus Elan | 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Elan | SL |
| Year Released | 1966 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1558 cc | 5987 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 376 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 696 kg | 1800 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3700 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1180 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 80 L |
