1996 Lotus Elan vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz Viano
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz Viano 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 3,199 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz Viano is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz Viano (187 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1996 Lotus Elan. (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz Viano should accelerate faster than 1996 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz Viano weights approximately 1090 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 Viano 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 Viano. 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 Viano (270 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 66 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Lotus Elan. (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz Viano will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Lotus Elan. 2005 Mercedes-Benz Viano 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 Viano will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Lotus Elan | 2005 Mercedes-Benz Viano | |
| Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Elan | Viano |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 3199 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 187 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 204 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 2110 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1880 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 3210 mm |
