1991 Lotus Elan vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 13 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 1,991 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Lotus Elan (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 2004 Mercedes-Benz A. (141 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1991 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 2004 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 345 kg more than 1991 Lotus Elan.
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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz A (310 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 106 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Lotus Elan. (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Lotus Elan | 2004 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Elan | A |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 204 Nm | 310 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 | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1365 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2570 mm |
