1996 Lotus Elan vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 9 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 2,987 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C (221 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 1996 Lotus Elan. (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1996 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 660 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 2005 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz C. 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C (400 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 196 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Lotus Elan. (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Lotus Elan | 2005 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Elan | C |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 2987 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 221 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 204 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 1400 RPM |
| 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 | 1680 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2570 mm |
