1989 Lotus Carlton vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Lotus Carlton. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Lotus Carlton would be higher. At 5,500 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine.
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, 1989 Lotus Carlton (569 Nm) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL. (530 Nm). This means 1989 Lotus Carlton will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1989 Lotus Carlton has manual transmission. 1989 Lotus Carlton will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Lotus Carlton | 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Carlton | SL |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3615 cc | 5500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 382 HP |
| Torque | 569 Nm | 530 Nm |
| Top Speed | 289 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4582 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1940 mm | 1298 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2560 mm |
