1966 Lotus Elan vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 45 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 1,699 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 115 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 544 kg more than 1966 Lotus Elan.
Because 1966 Lotus Elan is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1966 Lotus Elan. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz A, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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. Let's talk about torque, 2011 Mercedes-Benz A (155 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Lotus Elan. (147 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1966 Lotus Elan | 2011 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Elan | A |
| Year Released | 1966 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1557 cc | 1699 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 147 Nm | 155 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.8 mm | 78.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 188 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 696 kg | 1240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3700 mm | 3890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1180 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2140 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 54 L |
