1980 Lotus Esprit vs. 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 33 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 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK (298 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 90 more horse power than 1980 Lotus Esprit. (208 HP @ 6250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1980 Lotus Esprit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 334 kg more than 1980 Lotus Esprit. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK (370 Nm @ 5250 RPM) has 93 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Lotus Esprit. (277 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Lotus Esprit.
Compare all specifications:
1980 Lotus Esprit | 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Esprit | SLK |
Year Released | 1980 | 2013 |
Body Type | Coupe | Roadster |
Engine Position | Middle | Middle |
Engine Size | 2172 cc | 3500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 6 valves |
Horse Power | 208 HP | 298 HP |
Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 277 Nm | 370 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 5250 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 95.3 mm | 92 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 76.2 mm | 86 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | 4-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1206 kg | 1540 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4134 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 2006 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1303 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2430 mm |