1995 Lotus Elan vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 2,148 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 Lotus Elan (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 43 more horse power than 2004 Mercedes-Benz C. (120 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1995 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 2004 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 470 kg more than 1995 Lotus Elan.
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, 1995 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 (270 Nm) has 66 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 Lotus Elan. (204 Nm). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 Lotus Elan | 2004 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Elan | C |
| Year Released | 1995 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 2148 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 204 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1490 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2720 mm |
