1991 Lotus Elan vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz Viano
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz Viano is newer by 12 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 3,199 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz Viano is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz Viano (215 HP) has 55 more horse power than 1991 Lotus Elan. (160 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz Viano should accelerate faster than 1991 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz Viano weights approximately 1063 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 2003 Mercedes-Benz Viano 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 Viano. 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz Viano (305 Nm) has 162 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Lotus Elan. (143 Nm). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz Viano will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Lotus Elan. 2003 Mercedes-Benz Viano 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. 2003 Mercedes-Benz Viano will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Lotus Elan | 2003 Mercedes-Benz Viano | |
| Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Elan | Viano |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 3199 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 215 HP |
| Torque | 143 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 84 mm |
| Top Speed | 196 km/hour | 191 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 997 kg | 2060 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1880 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 3210 mm |
