1992 Lotus Elan vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML is newer by 20 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 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML (240 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 77 more horse power than 1992 Lotus Elan. (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 1992 Lotus Elan.
Because 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1992 Lotus Elan. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML (616 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 412 more torque (in Nm) than 1992 Lotus Elan. (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1992 Lotus Elan. 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML 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. 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1992 Lotus Elan | 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
| Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Elan | ML |
| Year Released | 1992 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1587 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 240 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 204 Nm | 616 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4803 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 2141 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1796 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2916 mm |
