1974 Holden Statesman vs. 1999 Kia Elan
To start off, 1999 Kia Elan is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Holden Statesman. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Holden Statesman would be higher. At 3,297 cc (6 cylinders), 1974 Holden Statesman is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Kia Elan (149 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1974 Holden Statesman. (133 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Kia Elan should accelerate faster than 1974 Holden Statesman. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Holden Statesman weights approximately 312 kg more than 1999 Kia Elan.
Because 1974 Holden Statesman 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 1974 Holden Statesman. 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, 1974 Holden Statesman (263 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 77 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Kia Elan. (186 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1974 Holden Statesman will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Kia Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Holden Statesman | 1999 Kia Elan | |
| Make | Holden | Kia |
| Model | Statesman | Elan |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3297 cc | 1793 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 133 HP | 149 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 263 Nm | 186 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1068 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 3890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2260 mm |
