2008 Lotus Elise vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Lotus Elise. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Lotus Elise would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL (311 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 122 more horse power than 2008 Lotus Elise. (189 HP @ 7800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2008 Lotus Elise.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 Mercedes-Benz SL (360 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 180 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Lotus Elise. (180 Nm @ 6800 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Lotus Elise. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2008 Lotus Elise has manual transmission. 2008 Lotus Elise will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Lotus Elise | 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Elise | SL |
Year Released | 2008 | 2011 |
Body Type | Roadster | Convertible |
Engine Position | Middle | Front |
Engine Size | 1795 cc | 3498 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 189 HP | 311 HP |
Engine RPM | 7800 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 180 Nm | 360 Nm |
Torque RPM | 6800 RPM | 4900 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Top Speed | 241 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 5.2 seconds | 6.2 seconds |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 4582 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1298 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2560 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 80 L |