1991 Lotus Elan vs. 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL
To start off, 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL is newer by 22 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 4,600 cc (8 cylinders), 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL (423 HP) has 263 more horse power than 1991 Lotus Elan. (160 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL should accelerate faster than 1991 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL weights approximately 1448 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 2013 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, 2013 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, 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL (700 Nm) has 557 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Lotus Elan. (143 Nm). This means 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Lotus Elan | 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL | |
| Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Elan | GL |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 4600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | electric |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 423 HP |
| Torque | 143 Nm | 700 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 86 mm |
| Top Speed | 196 km/hour | 210 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 997 kg | 2445 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 5120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 2141 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 3075 mm |
