1989 Lotus Elan vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 16 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 3,222 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz S (201 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1989 Lotus Elan. (165 HP @ 6600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1989 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 905 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz S 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz S. 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz S (460 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 259 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Lotus Elan. (201 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Lotus Elan. 2005 Mercedes-Benz S 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. 2005 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1989 Lotus Elan | 2005 Mercedes-Benz S | |
Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Elan | S |
Year Released | 1989 | 2005 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1588 cc | 3222 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 165 HP | 201 HP |
Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Torque | 201 Nm | 460 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 1800 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 80.1 mm | 88.1 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 88.3 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 8.2:1 | 18.0:1 |
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 | 1925 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 5050 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1860 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1450 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2670 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 88 L |