1991 Lotus Elan vs. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300
To start off, 1991 Lotus Elan is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Lotus Elan (160 HP) has 47 more horse power than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300. (113 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1991 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300 weights approximately 413 kg more than 1991 Lotus Elan.
Because 1985 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 1985 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, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300 (185 Nm) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Lotus Elan. (143 Nm). This means 1985 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 | 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300 | |
Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Elan | 300 |
Year Released | 1991 | 1985 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1588 cc | 2996 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 160 HP | 113 HP |
Torque | 143 Nm | 185 Nm |
Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 87 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 84 mm |
Top Speed | 196 km/hour | 184 km/hour |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 997 kg | 1410 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4750 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1750 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2810 mm |