1970 Lotus Elan vs. 2005 Kia Rio
To start off, 2005 Kia Rio is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,556 cc (4 cylinders), 1970 Lotus Elan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1970 Lotus Elan (108 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 2005 Kia Rio. (96 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1970 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 2005 Kia Rio. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Kia Rio weights approximately 458 kg more than 1970 Lotus Elan.
Because 1970 Lotus Elan 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 Lotus Elan. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Kia Rio, 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. 2005 Kia Rio has automatic transmission and 1970 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1970 Lotus Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Kia Rio will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1970 Lotus Elan | 2005 Kia Rio | |
| Make | Lotus | Kia |
| Model | Elan | Rio |
| Year Released | 1970 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1556 cc | 1493 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 96 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 700 kg | 1158 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3690 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1170 mm | 1430 mm |
