1969 Lotus Elan vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz ML
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz ML 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 ML is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz ML (382 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 274 more horse power than 1969 Lotus Elan. (108 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 1969 Lotus Elan.
Because 2009 Mercedes-Benz ML 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 ML 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 ML (530 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 383 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Lotus Elan. (147 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Lotus Elan. 2009 Mercedes-Benz ML 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 ML will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1969 Lotus Elan | 2009 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
| Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Elan | ML |
| Year Released | 1969 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| 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 | 382 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 147 Nm | 530 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 193 km/hour | 245 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3690 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 2130 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1170 mm | 1820 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2140 mm | 2920 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 95 L |
