1989 Lotus Esprit vs. 2007 Mercedes-Benz C

To start off, 2007 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 18 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 2,995 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mercedes-Benz C (228 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1989 Lotus Esprit. (172 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1989 Lotus Esprit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 515 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.

Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2007 Mercedes-Benz C (300 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 79 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Lotus Esprit. (221 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2007 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Lotus Esprit. 2007 Mercedes-Benz C 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. 2007 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1989 Lotus Esprit 2007 Mercedes-Benz C
Make Lotus Mercedes-Benz
Model Esprit C
Year Released 1989 2007
Body Type Coupe Station Wagon
Engine Position Middle Front
Engine Size 2172 cc 2995 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 172 HP 228 HP
Engine RPM 6500 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 221 Nm 300 Nm
Torque RPM 5000 RPM 2400 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Rear
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 2 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1175 kg 1690 kg
Vehicle Length 4350 mm 4550 mm
Vehicle Width 1870 mm 1470 mm
Vehicle Height 1160 mm 1730 mm
Wheelbase Size 2440 mm 2720 mm