1989 Lotus Esprit vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 19 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 2,597 cc, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 437 kg more than 1989 Lotus Esprit.
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, 1989 Lotus Esprit (298 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mercedes-Benz C. (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1989 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mercedes-Benz C. 2008 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. 2008 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Lotus Esprit | 2008 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Esprit | C |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2174 cc | 2597 cc |
| Horse Power | 216 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.3 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.2 mm | 68.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 245 km/hour | 229 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1148 kg | 1585 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4980 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2720 mm |
