1969 Lotus Elan vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML is newer by 36 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 3,724 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML (232 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 124 more horse power than 1969 Lotus Elan. (108 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 1969 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 1485 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1969 Lotus Elan. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML will offer significantly more control. 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML (347 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 200 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Lotus Elan. (147 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Lotus Elan. 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML 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. 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1969 Lotus Elan | 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
| Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Elan | ML |
| Year Released | 1969 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1558 cc | 3724 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 147 Nm | 347 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.8 mm | 84 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 193 km/hour | 205 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 700 kg | 2185 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3690 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1170 mm | 1830 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2140 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 83 L |
