1996 Lotus Elan vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz R
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz R 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 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz R is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz R (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 105 more horse power than 1996 Lotus Elan. (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz R should accelerate faster than 1996 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz R weights approximately 125 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 R is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Lotus Elan. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz R will offer significantly more control. 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 R (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 146 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Lotus Elan. (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz R will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Lotus Elan. 2009 Mercedes-Benz R 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. 2009 Mercedes-Benz R will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Lotus Elan | 2009 Mercedes-Benz R | |
| Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Elan | R |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Minivan |
| 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 | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 268 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 204 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 6 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1145 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 5160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1960 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1670 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 3220 mm |
