1982 Lotus Esprit vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Lotus Esprit would be higher. At 3,196 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK (215 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 1982 Lotus Esprit. (158 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK should accelerate faster than 1982 Lotus Esprit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 649 kg more than 1982 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK (311 Nm) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Lotus Esprit. (221 Nm). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Lotus Esprit.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 Lotus Esprit | 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK | |
| Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Esprit | CLK |
| Year Released | 1982 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2172 cc | 3196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 221 Nm | 311 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.3 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.2 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1067 kg | 1716 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.1 L/100km | 10.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 31 L | 62 L |
