2004 Lotus Elise vs. 1959 Mercedes-Benz 190
To start off, 2004 Lotus Elise is newer by 45 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Mercedes-Benz 190. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Mercedes-Benz 190 would be higher. At 1,897 cc (4 cylinders), 1959 Mercedes-Benz 190 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Lotus Elise (120 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1959 Mercedes-Benz 190. (104 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1959 Mercedes-Benz 190. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1959 Mercedes-Benz 190 weights approximately 410 kg more than 2004 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:
| 2004 Lotus Elise | 1959 Mercedes-Benz 190 | |
| Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Elise | 190 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1959 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1897 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 750 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2410 mm |
