1989 Lotus Elan vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 1998 Mercedes-Benz C 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 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz C (342 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 177 more horse power than 1989 Lotus Elan. (165 HP @ 6600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1989 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 550 kg more than 1989 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 Mercedes-Benz C is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1998 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Lotus Elan, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz C (511 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 310 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Lotus Elan. (201 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Lotus Elan. 1998 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 1989 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1989 Lotus Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1989 Lotus Elan | 1998 Mercedes-Benz C | |
Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Elan | C |
Year Released | 1989 | 1998 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1588 cc | 5439 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
Horse Power | 165 HP | 342 HP |
Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 201 Nm | 511 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 80.1 mm | 97 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 92 mm |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1570 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4520 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1350 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2700 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 62 L |