1996 Lotus Elan vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo 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 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Lotus Elan (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 2005 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo. (102 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 2005 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo weights approximately 345 kg more than 1996 Lotus Elan.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 54 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo. (150 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo. 2005 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo 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. 2005 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Lotus Elan | 2005 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo | |
| Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Elan | Vaneo |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 102 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 204 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1365 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1840 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2910 mm |
