2004 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 2011 Lotus Exige
To start off, 2011 Lotus Exige is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Mercedes-Benz A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mercedes-Benz A would be higher. At 1,800 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Lotus Exige is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Lotus Exige (240 HP @ 8000 RPM) has 150 more horse power than 2004 Mercedes-Benz A. (90 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Lotus Exige should accelerate faster than 2004 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 283 kg more than 2011 Lotus Exige.
Because 2011 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 2011 Lotus Exige. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2011 Lotus Exige (230 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mercedes-Benz A. (140 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2011 Lotus Exige will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz A | 2011 Lotus Exige | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Lotus |
| Model | A | Exige |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 240 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 8000 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 942 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 3797 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1727 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1158 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2299 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 44 L |
