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 1,991 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1969 Lotus Elan (116 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 2009 Mercedes-Benz A. (81 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1969 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 2009 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 476 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, 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 (180 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Lotus Elan. (146 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 | 1991 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 116 HP | 81 HP |
Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Torque | 146 Nm | 180 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1400 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 83 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 72.8 mm | 92 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 18.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 850 kg | 1326 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3840 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1600 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2570 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 54 L |