1968 Lotus Elan vs. 2001 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2001 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 33 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 1,996 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mercedes-Benz E (134 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1968 Lotus Elan. (108 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1968 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 833 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 | 2001 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Elan | E |
| Year Released | 1968 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1558 cc | 1996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.7 mm | 78.7 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 702 kg | 1535 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3690 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1170 mm | 1450 mm |
