1993 Lotus Elan vs. 1970 Mercedes-Benz C 111
To start off, 1993 Lotus Elan is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Mercedes-Benz C 111. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Mercedes-Benz C 111 would be higher. At 2,400 cc, 1970 Mercedes-Benz C 111 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1970 Mercedes-Benz C 111 (345 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 181 more horse power than 1993 Lotus Elan. (164 HP @ 6600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1970 Mercedes-Benz C 111 should accelerate faster than 1993 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1970 Mercedes-Benz C 111 weights approximately 220 kg more than 1993 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1970 Mercedes-Benz C 111 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 1970 Mercedes-Benz C 111. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1993 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, 1970 Mercedes-Benz C 111 (392 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 188 more torque (in Nm) than 1993 Lotus Elan. (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1970 Mercedes-Benz C 111 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1993 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1993 Lotus Elan | 1970 Mercedes-Benz C 111 | |
| Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Elan | C 111 |
| Year Released | 1993 | 1970 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 2400 cc |
| Horse Power | 164 HP | 345 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 204 Nm | 392 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| 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 | 1240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1130 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2630 mm |
