1971 Lotus Elan vs. 1970 Mercedes-Benz 250
To start off, 1971 Lotus Elan is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Mercedes-Benz 250. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Mercedes-Benz 250 would be higher. At 2,778 cc (6 cylinders), 1970 Mercedes-Benz 250 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1970 Mercedes-Benz 250 (129 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1971 Lotus Elan. (108 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1970 Mercedes-Benz 250 should accelerate faster 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. 1970 Mercedes-Benz 250 has automatic transmission and 1971 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1971 Lotus Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1970 Mercedes-Benz 250 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Lotus Elan | 1970 Mercedes-Benz 250 | |
| Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Elan | 250 |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1970 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1558 cc | 2778 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3690 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1170 mm | 1450 mm |
