2006 Lotus Elise vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz B
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz B is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Lotus Elise. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Lotus Elise would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Lotus Elise is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Lotus Elise (189 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 69 more horse power than 2012 Mercedes-Benz B. (120 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 2012 Mercedes-Benz B.
Because 2006 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 2006 Lotus Elise. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz B, 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz B (200 Nm @ 1250 RPM) has 32 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Lotus Elise. (168 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz B will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Lotus Elise.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Lotus Elise | 2012 Mercedes-Benz B | |
| Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Elise | B |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1595 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 168 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 241 km/hour | 190 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 5.2 seconds | 10.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 4359 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1557 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2699 mm |
