1974 Lotus Elite vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Lotus Elite. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Lotus Elite would be higher. At 1,973 cc (4 cylinders), 1974 Lotus Elite is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Lotus Elite (142 HP) has 83 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (59 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1974 Lotus Elite should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 60 kg more than 1974 Lotus Elite.
Because 1974 Lotus Elite 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 1974 Lotus Elite. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A, 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, 1974 Lotus Elite (177 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (160 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 1974 Lotus Elite will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
1974 Lotus Elite | 1997 Mercedes-Benz A | |
Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Elite | A |
Year Released | 1974 | 1997 |
Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1973 cc | 1689 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 142 HP | 59 HP |
Torque | 177 Nm | 160 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 95.2 mm | 80 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 69.3 mm | 84 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 8.4:1 | 19.5:1 |
Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 153 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 | 1060 kg | 1120 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 3580 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1220 mm | 1580 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2430 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 54 L |