1996 Lotus Elan vs. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450
To start off, 1996 Lotus Elan is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 would be higher. At 4,520 cc (8 cylinders), 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 (225 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 1996 Lotus Elan. (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 should accelerate faster than 1996 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 weights approximately 722 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 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 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 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450. 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, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 (378 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 174 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Lotus Elan. (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Lotus Elan. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 has automatic transmission and 1996 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1996 Lotus Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Lotus Elan | 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 | |
Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Elan | 450 |
Year Released | 1996 | 1973 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1588 cc | 4520 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 163 HP | 225 HP |
Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 204 Nm | 378 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1742 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4970 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1870 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2870 mm |