1980 Lotus Esprit vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Lotus Esprit would be higher. At 5,513 cc, 2008 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 961 kg more than 1980 Lotus Esprit.
Because 2008 Mercedes-Benz S is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1980 Lotus Esprit. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz S will offer significantly more control. 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz S (830 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 559 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Lotus Esprit. (271 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Lotus Esprit. 2008 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1980 Lotus Esprit has manual transmission. 1980 Lotus Esprit will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Lotus Esprit | 2008 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Esprit | S |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2174 cc | 5513 cc |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 271 Nm | 830 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.4 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.2 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6 seconds | 4.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1219 kg | 2180 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 5210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1480 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1880 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 3170 mm |
