1969 Lotus Elan vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK (361 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 243 more horse power than 1969 Lotus Elan. (118 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1969 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 652 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK (500 Nm) has 354 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Lotus Elan. (146 Nm). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1969 Lotus Elan | 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Elan | SLK |
| Year Released | 1969 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1558 cc | 5439 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 361 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 500 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 97.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.8 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 889 kg | 1541 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 70 L |
