1989 Lotus Elan vs. 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 10 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Lotus Elan (165 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (161 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 270 kg more than 1989 Lotus Elan.
Because 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK. 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, 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK (234 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Lotus Elan. (201 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
1989 Lotus Elan | 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Elan | SLK |
Year Released | 1989 | 1999 |
Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1998 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 165 HP | 161 HP |
Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5300 RPM |
Torque | 201 Nm | 234 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 2500 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 8.2:1 | 9.5:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1290 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4000 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1280 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2410 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 70 L |