1992 Lotus Elan vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK is newer by 16 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 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 139 more horse power than 1992 Lotus Elan. (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK should accelerate faster than 1992 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 640 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK. 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 256 more torque (in Nm) than 1992 Lotus Elan. (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1992 Lotus Elan. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK 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. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1992 Lotus Elan | 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK | |
| Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Elan | CLK |
| Year Released | 1992 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1587 cc | 4966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 204 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1660 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2720 mm |
