1986 Lotus Esprit vs. 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 24 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), 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL (518 HP) has 303 more horse power than 1986 Lotus Esprit. (215 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1986 Lotus Esprit.
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, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL (630 Nm) has 225 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Lotus Esprit. (405 Nm). This means 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Lotus Esprit. 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL 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. 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1986 Lotus Esprit | 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Esprit | SL |
Year Released | 1986 | 2010 |
Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
Engine Position | Middle | Front |
Engine Size | 2174 cc | 6208 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 215 HP | 518 HP |
Torque | 405 Nm | 630 Nm |
Engine Bore Size | 95.3 mm | 102.3 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 76.2 mm | 94.6 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4540 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1480 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1600 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2570 mm |