1998 Lotus 340 R vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Lotus 340 R. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Lotus 340 R would be higher. At 2,084 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Lotus 340 R (190 HP @ 7800 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 2002 Mercedes-Benz A. (138 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Lotus 340 R should accelerate faster than 2002 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 520 kg more than 1998 Lotus 340 R.
Because 1998 Lotus 340 R 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 1998 Lotus 340 R. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz A, 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 A (205 Nm) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Lotus 340 R. (198 Nm). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Lotus 340 R. 2002 Mercedes-Benz A has automatic transmission and 1998 Lotus 340 R has manual transmission. 1998 Lotus 340 R will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Mercedes-Benz A will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Lotus 340 R | 2002 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 340 R | A |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1795 cc | 2084 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 198 Nm | 205 Nm |
| Top Speed | 209 km/hour | 193 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 675 kg | 1195 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3510 mm | 3820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1130 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2320 mm | 2780 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 72 L | 54 L |
