1989 Lotus Elan vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 1998 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Lotus Elan (165 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. (128 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 75 kg more than 1989 Lotus Elan.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear 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 Elan (201 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1989 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Lotus Elan | 1998 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Elan | A |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 165 HP | 128 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 201 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.1 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 85.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.2:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1095 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 3580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1590 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2430 mm |
