1969 Lotus Elan vs. 2013 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2013 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 44 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 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2013 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Mercedes-Benz E (298 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 190 more horse power than 1969 Lotus Elan. (108 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1969 Lotus Elan.
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, 2013 Mercedes-Benz E (370 Nm @ 5250 RPM) has 223 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Lotus Elan. (147 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2013 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1969 Lotus Elan | 2013 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Elan | E |
| Year Released | 1969 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1558 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | W |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 6 valves |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 298 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 147 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.8 mm | 86 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 193 km/hour | 210 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | CVT |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
