1990 Lotus Elan vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 139 more horse power than 1990 Lotus Elan. (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1990 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 885 kg more than 1990 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1990 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 256 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Lotus Elan. (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Lotus Elan. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1990 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1990 Lotus Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1990 Lotus Elan | 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Elan | SL |
Year Released | 1990 | 2003 |
Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1588 cc | 4966 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
Horse Power | 163 HP | 302 HP |
Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 204 Nm | 460 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 2700 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1905 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4540 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1830 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2520 mm |