1969 Lotus Elan vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLS
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLS 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 SLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLS (563 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 455 more horse power than 1969 Lotus Elan. (108 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLS should accelerate faster than 1969 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLS weights approximately 921 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.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 SLS (649 Nm @ 4750 RPM) has 502 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Lotus Elan. (147 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
1969 Lotus Elan | 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLS | |
Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Elan | SLS |
Year Released | 1969 | 2011 |
Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
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 | 563 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6800 RPM |
Torque | 147 Nm | 649 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4750 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 700 kg | 1621 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3690 mm | 4638 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1938 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1170 mm | 1252 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2140 mm | 2680 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 85 L |