1974 Lotus Elite vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 38 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, 1974 Lotus Elite (142 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 2012 Mercedes-Benz A. (94 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 Lotus Elite should accelerate faster than 2012 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 165 kg more than 1974 Lotus Elite.
Because 1974 Lotus Elite is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1974 Lotus Elite. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz A, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1974 Lotus Elite (177 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mercedes-Benz A. (141 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1974 Lotus Elite will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
1974 Lotus Elite | 2012 Mercedes-Benz A | |
Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Elite | A |
Year Released | 1974 | 2012 |
Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1973 cc | 1498 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 142 HP | 94 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 177 Nm | 141 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 95.2 mm | 83 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 69.3 mm | 69.2 mm |
Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 175 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 1225 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 3840 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1220 mm | 1550 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2570 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 54 L |