1969 Lotus Elan vs. 1961 Mercedes-Benz SE
To start off, 1969 Lotus Elan is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Mercedes-Benz SE. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Mercedes-Benz SE would be higher. At 2,193 cc (6 cylinders), 1961 Mercedes-Benz SE is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 118 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 Mercedes-Benz SE weights approximately 486 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. Let's talk about torque, 1961 Mercedes-Benz SE (189 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 43 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Lotus Elan. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1961 Mercedes-Benz SE will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
1969 Lotus Elan | 1961 Mercedes-Benz SE | |
Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Elan | SE |
Year Released | 1969 | 1961 |
Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1558 cc | 2193 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 118 HP | 118 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Torque | 146 Nm | 189 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3900 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 80 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 72.8 mm | 72.8 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 8.7:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 889 kg | 1375 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4880 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1800 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1450 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2760 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 100 L |