1968 Lotus Elan vs. 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 2,962 cc (6 cylinders), 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL (228 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 124 more horse power than 1968 Lotus Elan. (104 HP @ 6250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1968 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 870 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 | 1990 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Elan | SL |
| Year Released | 1968 | 1990 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1558 cc | 2962 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 820 kg | 1690 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 80 L |
