2006 Lotus Elise vs. 1999 Mercedes-Benz ML
To start off, 2006 Lotus Elise is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Mercedes-Benz ML. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Mercedes-Benz ML would be higher. At 2,601 cc (5 cylinders), 1999 Mercedes-Benz ML is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Lotus Elise (190 HP @ 7800 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 1999 Mercedes-Benz ML. (161 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1999 Mercedes-Benz ML. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 1259 kg more than 2006 Lotus Elise.
Because 1999 Mercedes-Benz ML is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2006 Lotus Elise. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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, 1999 Mercedes-Benz ML (377 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 190 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Lotus Elise. (187 Nm @ 6800 RPM). This means 1999 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Lotus Elise.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Lotus Elise | 1999 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
| Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Elise | ML |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Roadster | SUV |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1803 cc | 2601 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7800 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 187 Nm | 377 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 6800 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 896 kg | 2155 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1830 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 72 L |
