1996 Lotus Elan vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Lotus Elan (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 2002 Mercedes-Benz E. (161 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 2002 Mercedes-Benz E. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 550 kg more than 1996 Lotus Elan.
Because 2002 Mercedes-Benz E 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 2002 Mercedes-Benz E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz E (240 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Lotus Elan. (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Lotus Elan | 2002 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Elan | E |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 204 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1570 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2860 mm |
