1996 Lotus Elan vs. 2010 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2010 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 14 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 5,500 cc (12 cylinders), 2010 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Mercedes-Benz S (510 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 347 more horse power than 1996 Lotus Elan. (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1996 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 1225 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 2010 Mercedes-Benz S 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 2010 Mercedes-Benz S. 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, 2010 Mercedes-Benz S (829 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 625 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Lotus Elan. (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2010 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Lotus Elan. 2010 Mercedes-Benz S 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. 2010 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Lotus Elan | 2010 Mercedes-Benz S | |
Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Elan | S |
Year Released | 1996 | 2010 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1588 cc | 5500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
Horse Power | 163 HP | 510 HP |
Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 204 Nm | 829 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 1800 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 2245 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 5245 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1872 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1473 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 3165 mm |