1991 Lotus Elan vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL is newer by 18 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 5,461 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL (382 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 219 more horse power than 1991 Lotus Elan. (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL should accelerate faster than 1991 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL weights approximately 1810 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 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1991 Lotus Elan. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL will offer significantly more control. 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL (530 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 326 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Lotus Elan. (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Lotus Elan. 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL 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. 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1991 Lotus Elan | 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL | |
Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Elan | GL |
Year Released | 1991 | 2009 |
Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1588 cc | 5461 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 163 HP | 382 HP |
Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 204 Nm | 530 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 2800 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 7 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 2830 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 5100 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1910 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1850 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 3080 mm |