2005 Lotus Elise vs. 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 2005 Lotus Elise is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 would be higher. At 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Lotus Elise (190 HP @ 8000 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280. (174 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 664 kg more than 2005 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. Let's talk about torque, 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 (233 Nm) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Lotus Elise. (187 Nm). This means 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Lotus Elise.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Lotus Elise | 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Elise | 280 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2746 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 174 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 187 Nm | 233 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 896 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 4760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2830 mm |
