1996 Lotus Elan vs. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300
To start off, 1996 Lotus Elan is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 2,962 cc (6 cylinders), 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300 (188 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1996 Lotus Elan. (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300 should accelerate faster than 1996 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300 weights approximately 320 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 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300 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 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300. 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, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300 (260 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Lotus Elan. (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Lotus Elan | 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300 | |
Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Elan | 300 |
Year Released | 1996 | 1985 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1588 cc | 2962 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 163 HP | 188 HP |
Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5700 RPM |
Torque | 204 Nm | 260 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1340 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4750 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1750 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1450 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2810 mm |