1971 Lotus Elan vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 37 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 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 978 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. Let's talk about torque, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 307 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Lotus Elan. (153 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Lotus Elan. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL 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. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1971 Lotus Elan | 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Elan | SL |
Year Released | 1971 | 2008 |
Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1558 cc | 4966 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
Horse Power | 126 HP | 0 HP |
Torque | 153 Nm | 460 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 2700 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 97 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 72.8 mm | 84 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
Top Speed | 193 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 870 kg | 1848 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4540 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2570 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 80 L |