First, elephants have a longer evolutionary history than lions. Elephants evolved from the extinct mammoths, which were even larger than modern-day elephants. Lions, on the other hand, evolved from smaller cat species. This means that elephants have had more time to grow and evolve into the large animals they are today.
Second, elephants live in different environments than lions. Elephants are found in Africa and Asia, where there is an abundance of food and water. This allows them to grow to their full size. Lions, on the other hand, live in savannas and grasslands, where food and water are more scarce. This means that they have to be smaller in order to survive.
Third, elephants have different diets than lions. Elephants are herbivores, which means that they eat plants. This allows them to get the nutrients they need to grow to their full size. Lions, on the other hand, are carnivores, which means that they eat meat. This means that they have to spend more time hunting and eating, which takes away from the time they have to grow.
As a result of these factors, elephants are much bigger than lions. Elephants can weigh up to 15,000 pounds, while lions can weigh up to 500 pounds. This makes elephants the largest land animals on Earth.