1969 Lotus Elan vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK
To start off, 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 3,199 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK (216 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 100 more horse power than 1969 Lotus Elan. (116 HP @ 6250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK should accelerate faster than 1969 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 415 kg more than 1969 Lotus Elan. 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. Let's talk about torque, 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK (311 Nm) has 165 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Lotus Elan. (146 Nm). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Lotus Elan. 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK has automatic transmission and 1969 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1969 Lotus Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1969 Lotus Elan | 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK | |
| Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Elan | CLK |
| Year Released | 1969 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1558 cc | 3199 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 116 HP | 216 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 311 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 850 kg | 1265 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 70 L |
