1996 Lotus Elan vs. 1987 Mercedes-Benz G
To start off, 1996 Lotus Elan is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Mercedes-Benz G. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Mercedes-Benz G would be higher. At 2,299 cc (4 cylinders), 1987 Mercedes-Benz G is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Lotus Elan (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1987 Mercedes-Benz G. (125 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1987 Mercedes-Benz G. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Mercedes-Benz G weights approximately 860 kg more than 1996 Lotus Elan.
Because 1987 Mercedes-Benz G is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Lotus Elan. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 Mercedes-Benz G will offer significantly more control. 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, 1996 Lotus Elan (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Mercedes-Benz G. (186 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Mercedes-Benz G.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Lotus Elan | 1987 Mercedes-Benz G | |
| Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Elan | G |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1987 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 2299 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 125 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 204 Nm | 186 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1880 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4240 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1940 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2410 mm |
