1991 Lotus Esprit vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Lotus Esprit would be higher. At 3,198 cc, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 520 kg more than 1991 Lotus Esprit.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK (310 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 89 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Lotus Esprit. (221 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Lotus Esprit. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK has automatic transmission and 1991 Lotus Esprit has manual transmission. 1991 Lotus Esprit will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Lotus Esprit | 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK | |
| Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Esprit | CLK |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2174 cc | 3198 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 172 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 221 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1175 kg | 1695 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4340 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1160 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 73 L | 62 L |
