1968 Lotus Elan vs. 1962 Mercedes-Benz 300
To start off, 1968 Lotus Elan is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1962 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 1962 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1962 Mercedes-Benz 300 (158 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1968 Lotus Elan. (116 HP @ 6250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1962 Mercedes-Benz 300 should accelerate faster than 1968 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1962 Mercedes-Benz 300 weights approximately 1080 kg more than 1968 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:
| 1968 Lotus Elan | 1962 Mercedes-Benz 300 | |
| Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Elan | 300 |
| Year Released | 1968 | 1962 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1558 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 116 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 850 kg | 1930 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 5200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 3160 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 71 L |
