1971 Lotus Elan vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz G
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz G is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 5,000 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz G is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Lotus Elan (126 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 2002 Mercedes-Benz G. (94 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 2002 Mercedes-Benz G. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz G weights approximately 225 kg more than 1971 Lotus Elan.
Because 2002 Mercedes-Benz G is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1971 Lotus Elan. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz G will offer significantly more control. 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. Let's talk about torque, 2002 Mercedes-Benz G (456 Nm) has 303 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Lotus Elan. (153 Nm). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz G will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Lotus Elan. 2002 Mercedes-Benz G 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. 2002 Mercedes-Benz G will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Lotus Elan | 2002 Mercedes-Benz G | |
| Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Elan | G |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1558 cc | 5000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 126 HP | 94 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 153 Nm | 456 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 870 kg | 1095 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4720 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1980 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 80 L |
