1969 Lotus Elan vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 39 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 1,898 cc, 2008 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 266 kg more than 1969 Lotus Elan.
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, 2008 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz A (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Lotus Elan. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 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 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Elan | A |
| Year Released | 1969 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1558 cc | 1898 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.8 mm | 85.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 198 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 889 kg | 1155 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 3610 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1590 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 54 L |
