1996 Lotus Elan vs. 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 11 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), 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK (268 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 105 more horse power than 1996 Lotus Elan. (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1996 Lotus Elan.
Because 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK. 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, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK (510 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 306 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Lotus Elan. (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Lotus Elan. 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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. 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Lotus Elan | 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Elan | SLK |
Year Released | 1996 | 2007 |
Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
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 | 3 valves |
Horse Power | 163 HP | 268 HP |
Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5750 RPM |
Torque | 204 Nm | 510 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1280 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2440 mm |