1970 Lotus Seven vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Lotus Seven. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Lotus Seven would be higher. At 1,689 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1970 Lotus Seven (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (88 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1970 Lotus Seven should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 525 kg more than 1970 Lotus Seven.
Because 1970 Lotus Seven is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1970 Lotus Seven. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A has automatic transmission and 1970 Lotus Seven has manual transmission. 1970 Lotus Seven will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1970 Lotus Seven | 1997 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Seven | A |
| Year Released | 1970 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1557 cc | 1689 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 88 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 570 kg | 1095 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3380 mm | 3580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 950 mm | 1580 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2430 mm |
