1974 Lotus Elite vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 31 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 3,199 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C (216 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 1974 Lotus Elite. (142 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1974 Lotus Elite. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 580 kg more than 1974 Lotus Elite. 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C (310 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 133 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Lotus Elite. (177 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Lotus Elite.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Lotus Elite | 2005 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Elite | C |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1973 cc | 3199 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 142 HP | 216 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 177 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.2 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 69.3 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.4:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 244 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 1640 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1220 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 62 L |
