1998 Lotus 340 R vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 7 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 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (302 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 112 more horse power than 1998 Lotus 340 R. (190 HP @ 7800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1998 Lotus 340 R. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 1169 kg more than 1998 Lotus 340 R. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (470 Nm) has 272 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Lotus 340 R. (198 Nm). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Lotus 340 R.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Lotus 340 R | 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 340 R | SL |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1795 cc | 4966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7800 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 198 Nm | 470 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 675 kg | 1844 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3510 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1130 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2320 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 72 L | 80 L |
