2002 Lotus Elise vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Lotus Elise. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Lotus Elise would be higher. At 3,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 148 more horse power than 2002 Lotus Elise. (120 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2002 Lotus Elise. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 805 kg more than 2002 Lotus Elise. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Mercedes-Benz C is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2002 Lotus Elise. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C will offer significantly more control. 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. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 2002 Lotus Elise has manual transmission. 2002 Lotus Elise will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Lotus Elise | 2006 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Elise | C |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1795 cc | 3497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 268 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 750 kg | 1555 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1980 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 31 L | 62 L |
