1996 Lotus Esprit vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Lotus Esprit would be higher. At 5,980 cc (12 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL (661 HP) has 376 more horse power than 1996 Lotus Esprit. (285 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1996 Lotus Esprit.
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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL (1,000 Nm) has 490 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Lotus Esprit. (510 Nm). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Lotus Esprit. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1996 Lotus Esprit has manual transmission. 1996 Lotus Esprit will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Lotus Esprit | 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Esprit | SL |
Year Released | 1996 | 2009 |
Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
Engine Position | Middle | Front |
Engine Size | 2174 cc | 5980 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
Horse Power | 285 HP | 661 HP |
Torque | 510 Nm | 1000 Nm |
Top Speed | 265 km/hour | 320 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 5210 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1830 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2420 mm | 2570 mm |