1996 Lotus Elise vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz V
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz V is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Lotus Elise. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Lotus Elise would be higher. At 2,295 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz V is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz V (139 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1996 Lotus Elise. (116 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz V should accelerate faster than 1996 Lotus Elise. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz V weights approximately 1295 kg more than 1996 Lotus Elise. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Lotus Elise 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 1996 Lotus Elise. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz V, 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz V (210 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Lotus Elise. (169 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz V will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Lotus Elise.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Lotus Elise | 2002 Mercedes-Benz V | |
| Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Elise | V |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2295 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 116 HP | 139 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 169 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 705 kg | 2000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3730 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 3010 mm |
