1996 Lotus Elan vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 8 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 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz E (268 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 105 more horse power than 1996 Lotus Elan. (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1996 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 980 kg more than 1996 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 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 2004 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz E (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 146 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Lotus Elan. (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Lotus Elan. 2004 Mercedes-Benz E has automatic transmission and 1996 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1996 Lotus Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Lotus Elan | 2004 Mercedes-Benz E | |
Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Elan | E |
Year Released | 1996 | 2004 |
Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1588 cc | 3498 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 163 HP | 268 HP |
Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5750 RPM |
Torque | 204 Nm | 350 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 2400 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 2000 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4860 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1830 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1510 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2890 mm |