1989 Lotus Esprit vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Lotus Esprit would be higher. At 4,266 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (276 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 1989 Lotus Esprit. (216 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1989 Lotus Esprit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 807 kg more than 1989 Lotus Esprit. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1989 Lotus Esprit. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will offer significantly more control. 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (400 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 102 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Lotus Esprit. (298 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Lotus Esprit. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1989 Lotus Esprit has manual transmission. 1989 Lotus Esprit will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1989 Lotus Esprit | 2003 Mercedes-Benz S | |
Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Esprit | S |
Year Released | 1989 | 2003 |
Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
Engine Position | Middle | Front |
Engine Size | 2174 cc | 4266 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 216 HP | 276 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5750 RPM |
Torque | 298 Nm | 400 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 95.3 mm | 89.9 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 76.2 mm | 84 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
Top Speed | 245 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1148 kg | 1955 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 5050 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1860 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2860 mm |