1966 Lotus Elan vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 46 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 1,989 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1966 Lotus Elan (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 2012 Mercedes-Benz A. (108 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1966 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 2012 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 2134 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, 2012 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz A (250 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 103 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Lotus Elan. (147 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 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 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz A | |
Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Elan | A |
Year Released | 1966 | 2012 |
Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1557 cc | 1989 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 115 HP | 108 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Torque | 147 Nm | 250 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1600 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 83 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 72.8 mm | 92 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 18.0:1 |
Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 186 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 | 2830 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3700 mm | 3840 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1180 mm | 1600 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2140 mm | 2570 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 60 L |