1996 Lotus Elan vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz Viano
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz Viano is newer by 10 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 2,146 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz Viano is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Lotus Elan (163 HP) has 55 more horse power than 2006 Mercedes-Benz Viano. (108 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 2006 Mercedes-Benz Viano. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz Viano weights approximately 1020 kg more than 1996 Lotus Elan.
Because 2006 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 2006 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz Viano (270 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 66 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Lotus Elan. (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz Viano will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Lotus Elan | 2006 Mercedes-Benz Viano | |
| Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Elan | Viano |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 2146 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 108 HP |
| Torque | 204 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 2040 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 5230 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1880 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 3210 mm |
