1996 Lotus Esprit vs. 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240
To start off, 1996 Lotus Esprit is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 would be higher. At 2,398 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Lotus Esprit (285 HP) has 213 more horse power than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. (72 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1996 Lotus Esprit (510 Nm) has 373 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. (137 Nm). This means 1996 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Lotus Esprit | 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 | |
| Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Esprit | 240 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2174 cc | 2398 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 285 HP | 72 HP |
| Torque | 510 Nm | 137 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.3 mm | 90.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.2 mm | 92.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 21.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 8 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 5360 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2420 mm | 3430 mm |
