1969 Lotus Elan vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 33 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 2,084 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz A (138 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1969 Lotus Elan. (108 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1969 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 465 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.
Because 1969 Lotus Elan is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1969 Lotus Elan. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz A, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz A (205 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Lotus Elan. (147 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
1969 Lotus Elan | 2002 Mercedes-Benz A | |
Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Elan | A |
Year Released | 1969 | 2002 |
Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1558 cc | 2084 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 108 HP | 138 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 147 Nm | 205 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 11.0:1 |
Top Speed | 193 km/hour | 198 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 700 kg | 1165 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3690 mm | 3650 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1170 mm | 1590 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2140 mm | 2430 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 54 L |