1991 Lotus Elan vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 14 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 3,722 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (247 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 84 more horse power than 1991 Lotus Elan. (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1991 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 735 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL. 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (350 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 146 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Lotus Elan. (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
1991 Lotus Elan | 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Elan | SL |
Year Released | 1991 | 2005 |
Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1588 cc | 3722 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
Horse Power | 163 HP | 247 HP |
Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5700 RPM |
Torque | 204 Nm | 350 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1755 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4540 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2570 mm |