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 2,034 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz A (134 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1969 Lotus Elan. (118 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1969 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 381 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, 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 (185 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 39 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 | 2034 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 185 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.8 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 200 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 889 kg | 1270 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 54 L |
