1991 Lotus Elan vs. 1956 Mercedes-Benz 300
To start off, 1991 Lotus Elan is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 2,995 cc (6 cylinders), 1956 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1956 Mercedes-Benz 300 (238 HP) has 78 more horse power than 1991 Lotus Elan. (160 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1956 Mercedes-Benz 300 should accelerate faster than 1991 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1956 Mercedes-Benz 300 weights approximately 388 kg more than 1991 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1956 Mercedes-Benz 300 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 1956 Mercedes-Benz 300. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1991 Lotus Elan, 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, 1956 Mercedes-Benz 300 (271 Nm) has 128 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Lotus Elan. (143 Nm). This means 1956 Mercedes-Benz 300 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
1991 Lotus Elan | 1956 Mercedes-Benz 300 | |
Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Elan | 300 |
Year Released | 1991 | 1956 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1588 cc | 2995 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 160 HP | 238 HP |
Torque | 143 Nm | 271 Nm |
Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 85 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 88 mm |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 997 kg | 1385 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4580 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1800 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1310 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2410 mm |