1968 Lotus Elan vs. 2013 Mercedes-Benz M
To start off, 2013 Mercedes-Benz M is newer by 45 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 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2013 Mercedes-Benz M is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Mercedes-Benz M (237 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 121 more horse power than 1968 Lotus Elan. (116 HP @ 6250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Mercedes-Benz M should accelerate faster than 1968 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Mercedes-Benz M weights approximately 1325 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 2013 Mercedes-Benz M is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1968 Lotus Elan. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2013 Mercedes-Benz M will offer significantly more control. 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. Let's talk about torque, 2013 Mercedes-Benz M (617 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 471 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 Lotus Elan. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2013 Mercedes-Benz M will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1968 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1968 Lotus Elan | 2013 Mercedes-Benz M | |
| Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Elan | M |
| Year Released | 1968 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1558 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | electric |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 116 HP | 237 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 617 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.8 mm | 92 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 850 kg | 2175 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4804 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 2141 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1796 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2915 mm |
