1969 Lotus Elan vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz ML
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz ML is newer by 42 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 6,200 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz ML is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz ML (503 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 395 more horse power than 1969 Lotus Elan. (108 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 1969 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 1610 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 2011 Mercedes-Benz ML is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1969 Lotus Elan. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz ML (630 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 483 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Lotus Elan. (147 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Lotus Elan. 2011 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. 2011 Mercedes-Benz ML will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1969 Lotus Elan | 2011 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
| Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Elan | ML |
| Year Released | 1969 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1558 cc | 6200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 503 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 147 Nm | 630 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 700 kg | 2310 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3690 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1951 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1170 mm | 1862 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2140 mm | 2913 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 95 L |
