1994 Lotus Elan vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1994 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1994 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,803 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C (190 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 1994 Lotus Elan. (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1994 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 454 kg more than 1994 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1994 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C (260 Nm) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 1994 Lotus Elan. (204 Nm). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1994 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1994 Lotus Elan | 2004 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Elan | C |
| Year Released | 1994 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1803 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 204 Nm | 260 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1474 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2860 mm |
