1991 Lotus Elan vs. 1963 Mercedes-Benz 300
To start off, 1991 Lotus Elan is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1963 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1963 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 1963 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1963 Mercedes-Benz 300 (238 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 1991 Lotus Elan. (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1963 Mercedes-Benz 300 should accelerate faster than 1991 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1963 Mercedes-Benz 300 weights approximately 365 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 1963 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 1963 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, 1963 Mercedes-Benz 300 (271 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 67 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Lotus Elan. (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1963 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 | 1963 Mercedes-Benz 300 | |
| Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Elan | 300 |
| Year Released | 1991 | 1963 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 238 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 204 Nm | 271 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 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 |
