1991 Lotus Elan vs. 2007 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2007 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 16 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 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mercedes-Benz E (269 HP) has 109 more horse power than 1991 Lotus Elan. (160 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1991 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 813 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 2007 Mercedes-Benz E 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 2007 Mercedes-Benz E. 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, 2007 Mercedes-Benz E (350 Nm) has 207 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Lotus Elan. (143 Nm). This means 2007 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Lotus Elan. 2007 Mercedes-Benz E 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. 2007 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Lotus Elan | 2007 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Elan | E |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 269 HP |
| Torque | 143 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Top Speed | 196 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 997 kg | 1810 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1500 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1830 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2860 mm |
