1971 Lotus Elan vs. 2012 Kia Sportage
To start off, 2012 Kia Sportage is newer by 41 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 2,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Kia Sportage is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Kia Sportage (176 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1971 Lotus Elan. (126 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Kia Sportage should accelerate faster than 1971 Lotus Elan.
Because 1971 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 1971 Lotus Elan. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Kia Sportage, 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 Kia Sportage (228 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Lotus Elan. (153 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2012 Kia Sportage will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
1971 Lotus Elan | 2012 Kia Sportage | |
Make | Lotus | Kia |
Model | Elan | Sportage |
Year Released | 1971 | 2012 |
Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1558 cc | 2400 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 126 HP | 176 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 153 Nm | 228 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4440 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1854 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1636 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2639 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 58 L |