1968 Lotus Seven vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 40 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 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (510 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 427 more horse power than 1968 Lotus Seven. (83 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1968 Lotus Seven. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 1495 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. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL 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. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1968 Lotus Seven | 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Seven | SL |
| Year Released | 1968 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 5513 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 510 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 550 kg | 2045 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3380 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 950 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2570 mm |
