1974 Lotus Elite vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 1,996 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 305 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 SLK (230 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Lotus Elite. (177 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Lotus Elite. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK has automatic transmission and 1974 Lotus Elite has manual transmission. 1974 Lotus Elite will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1974 Lotus Elite | 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Elite | SLK |
Year Released | 1974 | 2008 |
Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1973 cc | 1996 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 142 HP | 0 HP |
Torque | 177 Nm | 230 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 95.2 mm | 89.9 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 69.3 mm | 78.7 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 8.4:1 | 9.5:1 |
Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 223 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 1365 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4090 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1780 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1220 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2410 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 60 L |