1976 Lotus Esprit vs. 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Lotus Esprit would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 330 kg more than 1976 Lotus Esprit.
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. 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK has automatic transmission and 1976 Lotus Esprit has manual transmission. 1976 Lotus Esprit will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1976 Lotus Esprit | 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Esprit | SLK |
Year Released | 1976 | 1999 |
Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
Engine Position | Middle | Front |
Engine Size | 1973 cc | 1998 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 0 HP | 161 HP |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 1290 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4000 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1280 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2410 mm |