1989 Lotus Esprit vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz R
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz R is newer by 23 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 2,987 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz R is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Lotus Esprit (264 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 77 more horse power than 2012 Mercedes-Benz R. (187 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 2012 Mercedes-Benz R.
Because 2012 Mercedes-Benz R is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1989 Lotus Esprit. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz R 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz R (440 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 87 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Lotus Esprit. (353 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz R will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Lotus Esprit. 2012 Mercedes-Benz R 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. 2012 Mercedes-Benz R will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Lotus Esprit | 2012 Mercedes-Benz R | |
| Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Esprit | R |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2172 cc | 2987 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 264 HP | 187 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 353 Nm | 440 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 1400 RPM |
| Top Speed | 256 km/hour | 216 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4340 mm | 5156 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1958 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1160 mm | 1661 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 3216 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 31 L | 80 L |
