1974 Lotus Elite vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK is newer by 35 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 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK (228 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 86 more horse power than 1974 Lotus Elite. (142 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK should accelerate faster than 1974 Lotus Elite. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 630 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK (300 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 123 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Lotus Elite. (177 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Lotus Elite.
Compare all specifications:
1974 Lotus Elite | 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK | |
Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Elite | CLK |
Year Released | 1974 | 2009 |
Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1973 cc | 2996 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 142 HP | 228 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 177 Nm | 300 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 95.2 mm | 88 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 69.3 mm | 82.1 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 8.4:1 | 11.1:1 |
Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 1690 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4640 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1750 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1220 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2720 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 62 L |