1968 Lotus Elan vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 41 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 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz S (382 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 278 more horse power than 1968 Lotus Elan. (104 HP @ 6250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1968 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 2400 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. 2009 Mercedes-Benz S 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. 2009 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1968 Lotus Elan | 2009 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Elan | S |
| Year Released | 1968 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1558 cc | 4966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 382 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 430 kg | 2830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3360 mm | 5170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1450 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1100 mm | 1860 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 3090 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 88 L |
