1981 Lotus Esprit vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz B
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz B is newer by 31 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 2,174 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Lotus Esprit (158 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 2012 Mercedes-Benz B. (120 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 2012 Mercedes-Benz B.
Because 1981 Lotus Esprit is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1981 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz B, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1981 Lotus Esprit (221 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mercedes-Benz B. (200 Nm @ 1250 RPM). This means 1981 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mercedes-Benz B.
Compare all specifications:
1981 Lotus Esprit | 2012 Mercedes-Benz B | |
Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Esprit | B |
Year Released | 1981 | 2012 |
Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Middle | Front |
Engine Size | 2174 cc | 1595 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 158 HP | 120 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 221 Nm | 200 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 1250 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4359 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1786 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1557 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2699 mm |