1994 Lotus Elan vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 15 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 2,996 cc, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (228 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1994 Lotus Elan. (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1994 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 672 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 2009 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 2009 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (300 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 96 more torque (in Nm) than 1994 Lotus Elan. (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2009 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 | 2009 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Elan | C |
| Year Released | 1994 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 2996 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 204 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1692 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1470 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1780 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2770 mm |
