1970 Lotus Elan vs. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 250
To start off, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 250 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 2,525 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Mercedes-Benz 250 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 250 (138 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1970 Lotus Elan. (108 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 250 should accelerate faster than 1970 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 250 weights approximately 660 kg more than 1970 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1970 Lotus Elan | 1979 Mercedes-Benz 250 | |
| Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Elan | 250 |
| Year Released | 1970 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1556 cc | 2525 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 700 kg | 1360 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3690 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1170 mm | 1450 mm |
