1999 Lotus M250 vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Lotus M250. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Lotus M250 would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS (305 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 1999 Lotus M250. (247 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS should accelerate faster than 1999 Lotus M250. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS weights approximately 785 kg more than 1999 Lotus M250. 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS (370 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Lotus M250. (321 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Lotus M250. 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS has automatic transmission and 1999 Lotus M250 has manual transmission. 1999 Lotus M250 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Lotus M250 | 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS | |
| Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | M250 | CLS |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2946 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 305 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 321 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 1735 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4140 mm | 4940 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1882 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1180 mm | 1417 mm |
