1998 Mercedes-Benz ML vs. 2012 Lotus Elise
To start off, 2012 Lotus Elise is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz ML. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz ML would be higher. At 7,253 cc (12 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz ML is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz ML (582 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 393 more horse power than 2012 Lotus Elise. (189 HP @ 7800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 2012 Lotus Elise. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 1138 kg more than 2012 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz ML (721 Nm) has 541 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Lotus Elise. (180 Nm). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Lotus Elise. 1998 Mercedes-Benz ML has automatic transmission and 2012 Lotus Elise has manual transmission. 2012 Lotus Elise will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Mercedes-Benz ML will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercedes-Benz ML | 2012 Lotus Elise | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Lotus |
| Model | ML | Elise |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
| Body Type | SUV | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 7253 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 582 HP | 189 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 7800 RPM |
| Torque | 721 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2050 kg | 912 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2299 mm |
