1966 Lotus Elan vs. 2001 Mercedes-Benz CLK
To start off, 2001 Mercedes-Benz CLK is newer by 35 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 5,000 cc (8 cylinders), 2001 Mercedes-Benz CLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1966 Lotus Elan (104 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 2001 Mercedes-Benz CLK. (94 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1966 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 2001 Mercedes-Benz CLK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 1350 kg more than 1966 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. 2001 Mercedes-Benz CLK 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. 2001 Mercedes-Benz CLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1966 Lotus Elan | 2001 Mercedes-Benz CLK | |
| Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Elan | CLK |
| Year Released | 1966 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1556 cc | 5000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 94 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 660 kg | 2010 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3700 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2140 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 29 L | 80 L |
