1993 Lotus Elan vs. 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1993 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1993 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK (228 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 1993 Lotus Elan. (164 HP @ 6600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1993 Lotus Elan.
Because 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1993 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, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK (300 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 96 more torque (in Nm) than 1993 Lotus Elan. (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1993 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1993 Lotus Elan | 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Elan | SLK |
| Year Released | 1993 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 164 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 204 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2440 mm |
