1990 Lotus Elan vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz B
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz B is newer by 22 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 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz B is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 Lotus Elan (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 2012 Mercedes-Benz B. (136 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1990 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 2012 Mercedes-Benz B.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz B (300 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 96 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Lotus Elan. (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz B will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 Lotus Elan | 2012 Mercedes-Benz B | |
| Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Elan | B |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 136 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 204 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4359 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1557 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2699 mm |
