1974 Lotus Elite vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 34 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. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 425 kg more than 1974 Lotus Elite.
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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C (240 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 63 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Lotus Elite. (177 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2008 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 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Elite | C |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1973 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 142 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 177 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.2 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 69.3 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.4:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 234 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 | 1485 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1220 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 62 L |
