1971 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2010 Lotus Elise
To start off, 2010 Lotus Elise is newer by 39 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 2,778 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Lotus Elise (405 HP @ 7100 RPM) has 237 more horse power than 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL. (168 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Lotus Elise weights approximately 521 kg more than 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL. 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, 2010 Lotus Elise (459 Nm @ 4750 RPM) has 219 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL. (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2010 Lotus Elise will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
1971 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2010 Lotus Elise | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Lotus |
Model | SL | Elise |
Year Released | 1971 | 2010 |
Body Type | Convertible | Roadster |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2778 cc | 1800 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 168 HP | 405 HP |
Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 7100 RPM |
Torque | 240 Nm | 459 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4750 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 1881 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4882 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1915 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1354 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2941 mm |