1968 Lotus Seven vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Lotus Seven. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Lotus Seven would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 185 more horse power than 1968 Lotus Seven. (83 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS should accelerate faster than 1968 Lotus Seven. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS weights approximately 1180 kg more than 1968 Lotus Seven. 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. 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS has automatic transmission and 1968 Lotus Seven has manual transmission. 1968 Lotus Seven will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1968 Lotus Seven | 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLS | |
| Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Seven | CLS |
| Year Released | 1968 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 268 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 550 kg | 1730 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3380 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 950 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2860 mm |
