1992 Lotus Elan vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1992 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1992 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren (617 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 454 more horse power than 1992 Lotus Elan. (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren should accelerate faster than 1992 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren weights approximately 748 kg more than 1992 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren 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 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1992 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren (780 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 576 more torque (in Nm) than 1992 Lotus Elan. (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1992 Lotus Elan. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren has automatic transmission and 1992 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1992 Lotus Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1992 Lotus Elan | 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren | |
| Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Elan | SLR McLaren |
| Year Released | 1992 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1587 cc | 5439 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 617 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 204 Nm | 780 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1768 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2710 mm |
