1996 Lotus Elan vs. 1943 Mercedes-Benz 500
To start off, 1996 Lotus Elan is newer by 53 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1943 Mercedes-Benz 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1943 Mercedes-Benz 500 would be higher. At 5,401 cc (8 cylinders), 1943 Mercedes-Benz 500 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1943 Mercedes-Benz 500 (177 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1996 Lotus Elan. (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1943 Mercedes-Benz 500 should accelerate faster than 1996 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1943 Mercedes-Benz 500 weights approximately 1380 kg more than 1996 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1943 Mercedes-Benz 500 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 1943 Mercedes-Benz 500. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 1943 Mercedes-Benz 500 (440 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 236 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Lotus Elan. (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1943 Mercedes-Benz 500 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Lotus Elan | 1943 Mercedes-Benz 500 | |
Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Elan | 500 |
Year Released | 1996 | 1943 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1588 cc | 5401 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 163 HP | 177 HP |
Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Torque | 204 Nm | 440 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 2200 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 2400 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 5160 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1830 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1590 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 3300 mm |