1999 Lotus Esprit vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Lotus Esprit would be higher. At 3,506 cc (8 cylinders), 1999 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 1452 kg more than 1999 Lotus Esprit.
Because 1999 Lotus Esprit 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 1999 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 1999 Lotus Esprit (542 Nm) has 292 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mercedes-Benz A. (250 Nm). This means 1999 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Lotus Esprit | 2012 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Esprit | A |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 3506 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 108 HP |
| Torque | 542 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 268 km/hour | 181 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1378 kg | 2830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4420 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1160 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2570 mm |
