1991 Lotus Elan vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 15 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 1,699 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Lotus Elan (160 HP) has 46 more horse power than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A. (114 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1991 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 788 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz A (155 Nm) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Lotus Elan. (143 Nm). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Lotus Elan. 2006 Mercedes-Benz A 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. 2006 Mercedes-Benz A will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Lotus Elan | 2006 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Elan | A |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1699 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 114 HP |
| Torque | 143 Nm | 155 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 78.5 mm |
| Top Speed | 196 km/hour | 188 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 997 kg | 1785 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2570 mm |
