1984 Lotus Etna vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Lotus Etna. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Lotus Etna would be higher. At 3,946 cc (8 cylinders), 1984 Lotus Etna is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1984 Lotus Etna (331 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 223 more horse power than 2008 Mercedes-Benz A. (108 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1984 Lotus Etna should accelerate faster than 2008 Mercedes-Benz A.
Because 1984 Lotus Etna 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 1984 Lotus Etna. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz A, 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, 1984 Lotus Etna (408 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 158 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mercedes-Benz A. (250 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 1984 Lotus Etna will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 1984 Lotus Etna | 2008 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Etna | A |
| Year Released | 1984 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 3946 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 331 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 408 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.2:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 290 km/hour | 181 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2570 mm |
