1994 Lotus Elan vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 11 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 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz S (302 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 139 more horse power than 1994 Lotus Elan. (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1994 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 871 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz S 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz S. 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz S (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 256 more torque (in Nm) than 1994 Lotus Elan. (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1994 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1994 Lotus Elan | 2005 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Elan | S |
| Year Released | 1994 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 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 | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 204 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1891 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 5170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2970 mm |
