1976 Lotus Esprit vs. 1972 Mercedes-Benz 450
To start off, 1976 Lotus Esprit is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Mercedes-Benz 450. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Mercedes-Benz 450 would be higher. At 4,519 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 Mercedes-Benz 450 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Mercedes-Benz 450 weights approximately 670 kg more than 1976 Lotus Esprit.
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. 1972 Mercedes-Benz 450 has automatic transmission and 1976 Lotus Esprit has manual transmission. 1976 Lotus Esprit will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1972 Mercedes-Benz 450 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Lotus Esprit | 1972 Mercedes-Benz 450 | |
| Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Esprit | 450 |
| Year Released | 1976 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1973 cc | 4519 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 217 HP |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 1630 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2820 mm |
