1969 Lotus Elan vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 40 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 1,699 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz A (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 1969 Lotus Elan. (108 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1969 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 625 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, 2009 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz A (155 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Lotus Elan. (147 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 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 | 2009 Mercedes-Benz A | |
Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Elan | A |
Year Released | 1969 | 2009 |
Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1558 cc | 1699 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 108 HP | 114 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 147 Nm | 155 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 83.1 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 72.8 mm | 78.5 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 11.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 700 kg | 1325 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3690 mm | 3840 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1170 mm | 1600 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2140 mm | 2570 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 60 L |