1970 Lotus Elan vs. 1991 Mercedes-Benz C 112
To start off, 1991 Mercedes-Benz C 112 is newer by 21 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 5,987 cc (12 cylinders), 1991 Mercedes-Benz C 112 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Mercedes-Benz C 112 (402 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 294 more horse power than 1970 Lotus Elan. (108 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1991 Mercedes-Benz C 112 should accelerate faster than 1970 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Mercedes-Benz C 112 weights approximately 850 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 | 1991 Mercedes-Benz C 112 | |
| Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Elan | C 112 |
| Year Released | 1970 | 1991 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1556 cc | 5987 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 402 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 700 kg | 1550 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3690 mm | 4620 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1980 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1170 mm | 1210 mm |
