2003 Lotus Elise vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Lotus Elise. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Lotus Elise would be higher. At 4,600 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML (399 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 278 more horse power than 2003 Lotus Elise. (121 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 2003 Lotus Elise. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 1511 kg more than 2003 Lotus Elise. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Lotus Elise. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML (600 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 425 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Lotus Elise. (175 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Lotus Elise. 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML has automatic transmission and 2003 Lotus Elise has manual transmission. 2003 Lotus Elise will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Lotus Elise | 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
| Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Elise | ML |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Roadster | SUV |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 4600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 121 HP | 399 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 600 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 750 kg | 2261 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 4803 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 2141 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1796 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2916 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 31 L | 93 L |
