1968 Lotus Elan vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 38 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 1,991 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz A (108 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1968 Lotus Elan. (104 HP @ 6250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1968 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 965 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.
Because 1968 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 1968 Lotus Elan. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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. 2006 Mercedes-Benz A has automatic transmission and 1968 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1968 Lotus Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Mercedes-Benz A will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1968 Lotus Elan | 2006 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Elan | A |
| Year Released | 1968 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1558 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 820 kg | 1785 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 60 L |
