1974 Lotus Elite vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 32 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 2,148 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C (148 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 1974 Lotus Elite. (142 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1974 Lotus Elite. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 725 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C (340 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 163 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Lotus Elite. (177 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2006 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 | 2006 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Elite | C |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1973 cc | 2148 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 142 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 177 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.2 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 69.3 mm | 88.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.4:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 224 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 1785 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1220 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 70 L |
