1971 Lotus Elan vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 35 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 2,987 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C (221 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 95 more horse power than 1971 Lotus Elan. (126 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1971 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 850 kg more than 1971 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. Let's talk about torque, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C (510 Nm) has 357 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Lotus Elan. (153 Nm). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Lotus Elan. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C 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. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1971 Lotus Elan | 2006 Mercedes-Benz C | |
Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Elan | C |
Year Released | 1971 | 2006 |
Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1558 cc | 2987 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 126 HP | 221 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Torque | 153 Nm | 510 Nm |
Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 83 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 72.8 mm | 92 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 18.0:1 |
Top Speed | 193 km/hour | 241 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 870 kg | 1720 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4820 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1880 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1500 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2890 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 70 L |