1996 Lotus Elan vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 13 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 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (181 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1996 Lotus Elan. (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1996 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 470 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 2009 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 2009 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (250 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Lotus Elan. (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2009 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 | 2009 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Elan | C |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 181 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 204 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1490 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2770 mm |
