2002 Lotus Esprit vs. 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300
To start off, 2002 Lotus Esprit is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 2,962 cc (6 cylinders), 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Lotus Esprit (240 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300. (185 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300 weights approximately 222 kg more than 2002 Lotus Esprit.
Because 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2002 Lotus Esprit. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300 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. Let's talk about torque, 2002 Lotus Esprit (294 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300. (260 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2002 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Lotus Esprit | 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300 | |
| Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Esprit | 300 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1987 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1974 cc | 2962 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 294 Nm | 260 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1308 kg | 1530 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1160 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2810 mm |
