1992 Lotus Elan vs. 1969 Mercedes-Benz 250
To start off, 1992 Lotus Elan is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 Mercedes-Benz 250. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Mercedes-Benz 250 would be higher. At 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 1969 Mercedes-Benz 250 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1992 Lotus Elan (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1969 Mercedes-Benz 250. (130 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1992 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1969 Mercedes-Benz 250. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1969 Mercedes-Benz 250 weights approximately 341 kg more than 1992 Lotus Elan.
Because 1969 Mercedes-Benz 250 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 1969 Mercedes-Benz 250. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1992 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, 1992 Lotus Elan (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Mercedes-Benz 250. (199 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1992 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Mercedes-Benz 250.
Compare all specifications:
| 1992 Lotus Elan | 1969 Mercedes-Benz 250 | |
| Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Elan | 250 |
| Year Released | 1992 | 1969 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1587 cc | 2497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 130 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 204 Nm | 199 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1361 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2760 mm |
