1993 Lotus Elan vs. 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350
To start off, 1993 Lotus Elan is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 would be higher. At 3,499 cc (8 cylinders), 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 (200 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1993 Lotus Elan. (164 HP @ 6600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 should accelerate faster than 1993 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 weights approximately 528 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 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 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 350. 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, 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 (286 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 82 more torque (in Nm) than 1993 Lotus Elan. (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1993 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1993 Lotus Elan | 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 | |
| Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Elan | 350 |
| Year Released | 1993 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 3499 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 164 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 204 Nm | 286 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 | 1548 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2470 mm |
