1991 Lotus Elan vs. 1995 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 1995 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 2,295 cc (4 cylinders), 1995 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 Mercedes-Benz SLK (190 HP) has 30 more horse power than 1991 Lotus Elan. (160 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1995 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1991 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 1053 kg more than 1991 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1995 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 1995 Mercedes-Benz SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1991 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, 1995 Mercedes-Benz SLK (280 Nm) has 137 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Lotus Elan. (143 Nm). This means 1995 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Lotus Elan | 1995 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Elan | SLK |
| Year Released | 1991 | 1995 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 2295 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 190 HP |
| Torque | 143 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Top Speed | 196 km/hour | 226 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 997 kg | 2050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2410 mm |
