2005 Lotus Elise vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2005 Lotus Elise is newer by 3 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz A (138 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 2005 Lotus Elise. (120 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 2005 Lotus Elise. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 380 kg more than 2005 Lotus Elise. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Lotus Elise 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 2005 Lotus Elise. 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 2005 Lotus Elise. (168 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Lotus Elise.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Lotus Elise | 2002 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Elise | A |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1794 cc | 2084 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 168 Nm | 205 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 200 km/hour | 198 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 5.7 seconds | 8.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 785 kg | 1165 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 3650 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1590 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 54 L |
