1971 Lotus Elan vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz B
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz B is newer by 38 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 1,991 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz B is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Lotus Elan (126 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 2009 Mercedes-Benz B. (108 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 2009 Mercedes-Benz B. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz B weights approximately 570 kg more than 1971 Lotus Elan.
Because 1971 Lotus Elan is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1971 Lotus Elan. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz B, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz B (250 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 97 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Lotus Elan. (153 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz B will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Lotus Elan | 2009 Mercedes-Benz B | |
| Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Elan | B |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1558 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 126 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 153 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| 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 | 183 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 870 kg | 1440 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2780 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 54 L |
