1996 Lotus Elan vs. 1969 Mercedes-Benz W 111
To start off, 1996 Lotus Elan is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 Mercedes-Benz W 111. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Mercedes-Benz W 111 would be higher. At 2,778 cc (6 cylinders), 1969 Mercedes-Benz W 111 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Lotus Elan (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 1969 Mercedes-Benz W 111. (158 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1969 Mercedes-Benz W 111. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1969 Mercedes-Benz W 111 weights approximately 490 kg more than 1996 Lotus Elan.
Let's talk about torque, 1969 Mercedes-Benz W 111 (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Lotus Elan. (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1969 Mercedes-Benz W 111 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Lotus Elan | 1969 Mercedes-Benz W 111 | |
| Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Elan | W 111 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1969 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 2778 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 204 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1510 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2760 mm |
