1985 Lotus Esprit vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Lotus Esprit would be higher. At 2,174 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C (161 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 1985 Lotus Esprit. (158 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1985 Lotus Esprit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 717 kg more than 1985 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C (240 Nm) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Lotus Esprit. (217 Nm). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Lotus Esprit. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 1985 Lotus Esprit has manual transmission. 1985 Lotus Esprit will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Lotus Esprit | 2006 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Esprit | C |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2174 cc | 1794 cc |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 217 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.3 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.2 mm | 85 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7 seconds | 9.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1068 kg | 1785 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.1 L/100km | 8.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 31 L | 62 L |
