1979 Lotus Esprit vs. 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Lotus Esprit would be higher. At 2,799 cc (6 cylinders), 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280 (197 HP) has 37 more horse power than 1979 Lotus Esprit. (160 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 1979 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. Let's talk about torque, 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280 (270 Nm) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Lotus Esprit. (217 Nm). This means 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Lotus Esprit.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Lotus Esprit | 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Esprit | 280 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1993 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2174 cc | 2799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 197 HP |
| Torque | 217 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 218 km/hour | 215 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 5550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 3610 mm |
