1969 Lotus Elan vs. 1959 Mercedes-Benz 190
To start off, 1969 Lotus Elan is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Mercedes-Benz 190. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Mercedes-Benz 190 would be higher. At 1,897 cc (4 cylinders), 1959 Mercedes-Benz 190 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1969 Lotus Elan (108 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1959 Mercedes-Benz 190. (104 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1969 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1959 Mercedes-Benz 190. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1959 Mercedes-Benz 190 weights approximately 460 kg more than 1969 Lotus Elan.
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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1969 Lotus Elan | 1959 Mercedes-Benz 190 | |
| Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Elan | 190 |
| Year Released | 1969 | 1959 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1558 cc | 1897 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 700 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3690 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1170 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2140 mm | 2410 mm |
