1985 Lotus Esprit vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 23 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 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C (269 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 111 more horse power than 1985 Lotus Esprit. (158 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1985 Lotus Esprit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 47 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 133 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Lotus Esprit. (217 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Lotus Esprit.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Lotus Esprit | 2008 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Esprit | C |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| 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 | 269 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 217 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7 seconds | 6.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1068 kg | 1115 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.1 L/100km | 9.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 31 L | 62 L |
