1989 Lotus Elan vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK
To start off, 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK 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 1,996 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Lotus Elan (165 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK. (134 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 480 kg more than 1989 Lotus Elan.
Because 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK 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 CLK. 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, 1989 Lotus Elan (201 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK. (185 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 1989 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK.
Compare all specifications:
1989 Lotus Elan | 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK | |
Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Elan | CLK |
Year Released | 1989 | 1998 |
Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1996 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 165 HP | 134 HP |
Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 201 Nm | 185 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3700 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 80.1 mm | 89.9 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 78.7 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 8.2:1 | 10.6:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1500 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4580 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1350 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2720 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 69 L |