1971 Lotus Elan vs. 1954 Mercedes-Benz 220
To start off, 1971 Lotus Elan is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1954 Mercedes-Benz 220. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1954 Mercedes-Benz 220 would be higher. At 2,195 cc (6 cylinders), 1954 Mercedes-Benz 220 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Lotus Elan (108 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1954 Mercedes-Benz 220. (83 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1954 Mercedes-Benz 220. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1954 Mercedes-Benz 220 weights approximately 683 kg more than 1971 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Lotus Elan | 1954 Mercedes-Benz 220 | |
| Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Elan | 220 |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1954 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1558 cc | 2195 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 83 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4800 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 | 1383 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3690 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1170 mm | 1570 mm |
