1969 Lotus Elan vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL 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 5,461 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL (377 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 269 more horse power than 1969 Lotus Elan. (108 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL should accelerate faster than 1969 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL weights approximately 525 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 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1969 Lotus Elan. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL will offer significantly more control. 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 CL (391 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 244 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Lotus Elan. (147 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Lotus Elan. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL has automatic transmission and 1969 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1969 Lotus Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1969 Lotus Elan | 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL | |
Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Elan | CL |
Year Released | 1969 | 2009 |
Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1558 cc | 5461 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 108 HP | 377 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 147 Nm | 391 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.7:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Top Speed | 193 km/hour | 204 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 700 kg | 1225 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3690 mm | 5070 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1880 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1170 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2140 mm | 2960 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 90 L |