1970 Buick GS vs. 1999 Kia Elan

To start off, 1999 Kia Elan is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Buick GS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Buick GS would be higher. At 5,724 cc (6 cylinders), 1970 Buick GS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1970 Buick GS (190 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 1999 Kia Elan. (149 HP @ 6250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1970 Buick GS should accelerate faster than 1999 Kia Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1970 Buick GS weights approximately 562 kg more than 1999 Kia Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1970 Buick GS 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 1970 Buick GS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Kia Elan, 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, 1970 Buick GS (394 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 208 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Kia Elan. (186 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1970 Buick GS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Kia Elan.

Compare all specifications:

1970 Buick GS 1999 Kia Elan
Make Buick Kia
Model GS Elan
Year Released 1970 1999
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 5724 cc 1793 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 190 HP 149 HP
Engine RPM 4000 RPM 6250 RPM
Torque 394 Nm 186 Nm
Torque RPM 2800 RPM 4500 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Vehicle Weight 1630 kg 1068 kg
Vehicle Length 5180 mm 3890 mm
Vehicle Width 1960 mm 1740 mm
Vehicle Height 1370 mm 1280 mm
Wheelbase Size 2860 mm 2260 mm