1986 Lotus Esprit vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Lotus Esprit would be higher. At 6,208 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML (503 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 343 more horse power than 1986 Lotus Esprit. (160 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 1986 Lotus Esprit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 1243 kg more than 1986 Lotus Esprit. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1986 Lotus Esprit. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML will offer significantly more control. 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 ML (631 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 410 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Lotus Esprit. (221 Nm @ 5250 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Lotus Esprit. 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML has automatic transmission and 1986 Lotus Esprit has manual transmission. 1986 Lotus Esprit will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Lotus Esprit | 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
| Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Esprit | ML |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | SUV |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2172 cc | 6208 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 503 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 221 Nm | 631 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5250 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.3 mm | 102.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.2 mm | 94.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7 seconds | 5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1067 kg | 2310 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2920 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.1 L/100km | 13.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 31 L | 95 L |
