1979 Lotus Eclat vs. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380
To start off, 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Lotus Eclat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Lotus Eclat would be higher. At 3,818 cc (8 cylinders), 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380 weights approximately 510 kg more than 1979 Lotus Eclat.
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. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380 has automatic transmission and 1979 Lotus Eclat has manual transmission. 1979 Lotus Eclat will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Lotus Eclat | 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380 | |
| Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Eclat | 380 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1973 cc | 3818 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 218 HP |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1050 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1210 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2820 mm |
