1988 Lotus Esprit vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Lotus Esprit would be higher. At 2,987 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML (221 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 1988 Lotus Esprit. (215 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 1988 Lotus Esprit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 962 kg more than 1988 Lotus Esprit. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1988 Lotus Esprit. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML (510 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 212 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Lotus Esprit. (298 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Lotus Esprit. 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML has automatic transmission and 1988 Lotus Esprit has manual transmission. 1988 Lotus Esprit will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Lotus Esprit | 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
| Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Esprit | ML |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Coupe | SUV |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2174 cc | 2987 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 221 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 510 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1188 kg | 2150 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1920 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1160 mm | 1820 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 31 L | 95 L |
