1998 Lotus Elise vs. 1962 Mercedes-Benz 300
To start off, 1998 Lotus Elise is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1962 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 1962 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Lotus Elise (187 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 1962 Mercedes-Benz 300. (158 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1962 Mercedes-Benz 300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1962 Mercedes-Benz 300 weights approximately 1216 kg more than 1998 Lotus Elise.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Lotus Elise | 1962 Mercedes-Benz 300 | |
| Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Elise | 300 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1962 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 187 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 714 kg | 1930 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3740 mm | 5200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1210 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 3160 mm |
