1974 Lotus Elite vs. 2007 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2007 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 33 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, 2007 Mercedes-Benz E (180 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1974 Lotus Elite. (142 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1974 Lotus Elite. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 660 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, 2007 Mercedes-Benz E (250 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 73 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Lotus Elite. (177 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2007 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Lotus Elite.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Lotus Elite | 2007 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Elite | E |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1973 cc | 1795 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 142 HP | 180 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 177 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.2 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 69.3 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.4:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 235 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 1720 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1220 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 70 L |
