1981 Lotus Esprit vs. 2007 Mercedes-Benz ML
To start off, 2007 Mercedes-Benz ML is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Lotus Esprit would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 Mercedes-Benz ML is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mercedes-Benz ML (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 110 more horse power than 1981 Lotus Esprit. (158 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 1981 Lotus Esprit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 1065 kg more than 1981 Lotus Esprit. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2007 Mercedes-Benz ML is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 Lotus Esprit. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 Mercedes-Benz ML 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, 2007 Mercedes-Benz ML (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 129 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Lotus Esprit. (221 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2007 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Lotus Esprit. 2007 Mercedes-Benz ML has automatic transmission and 1981 Lotus Esprit has manual transmission. 1981 Lotus Esprit will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 Mercedes-Benz ML will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1981 Lotus Esprit | 2007 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Esprit | ML |
Year Released | 1981 | 2007 |
Body Type | Coupe | SUV |
Engine Position | Middle | Front |
Engine Size | 2174 cc | 3498 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 158 HP | 268 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 221 Nm | 350 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 10.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 2185 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4640 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1850 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1830 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2920 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 95 L |