1998 Lotus 340 R vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 10 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 5,461 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (382 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 192 more horse power than 1998 Lotus 340 R. (190 HP @ 7800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1998 Lotus 340 R.
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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (530 Nm) has 332 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Lotus 340 R. (198 Nm). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Lotus 340 R. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL 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. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Lotus 340 R | 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 340 R | SL |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1795 cc | 5461 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 382 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 198 Nm | 530 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| 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 |
