1998 Lotus Elise vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Lotus Elise. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Lotus Elise would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK (228 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 1998 Lotus Elise. (187 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1998 Lotus Elise. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 732 kg more than 1998 Lotus Elise. 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK (300 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 107 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Lotus Elise. (193 Nm @ 5600 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Lotus Elise.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Lotus Elise | 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Elise | SLK |
Year Released | 1998 | 2008 |
Body Type | Roadster | Convertible |
Engine Position | Middle | Front |
Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2996 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 187 HP | 228 HP |
Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 193 Nm | 300 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5600 RPM | 2500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 714 kg | 1446 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3740 mm | 4090 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1790 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1210 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2440 mm |