1991 Lotus Elan vs. 1971 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 1991 Lotus Elan is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Mercedes-Benz E. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Mercedes-Benz E would be higher. At 1,988 cc (4 cylinders), 1971 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Lotus Elan (160 HP) has 66 more horse power than 1971 Mercedes-Benz E. (94 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1991 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1971 Mercedes-Benz E. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 333 kg more than 1991 Lotus Elan.
Because 1971 Mercedes-Benz E 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 1971 Mercedes-Benz E. 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, 1971 Mercedes-Benz E (159 Nm) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Lotus Elan. (143 Nm). This means 1971 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Lotus Elan | 1971 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Elan | E |
| Year Released | 1991 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1988 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 94 HP |
| Torque | 143 Nm | 159 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 87.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 997 kg | 1330 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2760 mm |
