1987 Lotus Esprit vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Lotus Esprit would be higher. At 3,197 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C (215 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 43 more horse power than 1987 Lotus Esprit. (172 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1987 Lotus Esprit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 501 kg more than 1987 Lotus Esprit. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Mercedes-Benz C is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1987 Lotus Esprit. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C (310 Nm) has 89 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Lotus Esprit. (221 Nm). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Lotus Esprit. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 1987 Lotus Esprit has manual transmission. 1987 Lotus Esprit will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Lotus Esprit | 2004 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Esprit | C |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2174 cc | 3197 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 172 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 221 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.3 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.2 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.9:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 222 km/hour | 245 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1104 kg | 1605 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4340 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1140 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2970 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 62 L |
