2003 Lotus Exige vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2003 Lotus Exige is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Mercedes-Benz A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Mercedes-Benz A would be higher. At 2,084 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Lotus Exige (175 HP @ 7800 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 2002 Mercedes-Benz A. (138 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Lotus Exige should accelerate faster than 2002 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 385 kg more than 2003 Lotus Exige.
Because 2003 Lotus Exige 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 2003 Lotus Exige. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz A (205 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Lotus Exige. (168 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Lotus Exige. 2002 Mercedes-Benz A has automatic transmission and 2003 Lotus Exige has manual transmission. 2003 Lotus Exige will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Mercedes-Benz A will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Lotus Exige | 2002 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Exige | A |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2084 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 168 Nm | 205 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 232 km/hour | 198 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 5.8 seconds | 9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 780 kg | 1165 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3800 mm | 3650 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1170 mm | 1590 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 36 L | 54 L |
