1991 Lotus Elan vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 11 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 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (493 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 330 more horse power than 1991 Lotus Elan. (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1991 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 1115 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 2002 Mercedes-Benz S 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 2002 Mercedes-Benz S. 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (801 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 597 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Lotus Elan. (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Lotus Elan. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1991 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1991 Lotus Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Lotus Elan | 2002 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Elan | S |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 5513 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 493 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 204 Nm | 801 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 2135 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 5170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2720 mm |
