1969 Lotus Elan vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 1,795 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 501 kg more than 1969 Lotus Elan.
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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK (240 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 94 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Lotus Elan. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 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 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Elan | SLK |
Year Released | 1969 | 2008 |
Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1558 cc | 1795 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 118 HP | 0 HP |
Torque | 146 Nm | 240 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 90 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 72.8 mm | 78.7 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 889 kg | 1390 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4090 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1790 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1450 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2440 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 70 L |