1989 Ford Fiesta vs. 1999 Kia Elan
To start off, 1999 Kia Elan is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Ford Fiesta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Ford Fiesta would be higher. At 1,793 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Kia Elan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Kia Elan (149 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 73 more horse power than 1989 Ford Fiesta. (76 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Kia Elan should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Kia Elan weights approximately 168 kg more than 1989 Ford Fiesta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1999 Kia Elan (186 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 54 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Ford Fiesta. (132 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1999 Kia Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Ford Fiesta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Ford Fiesta | 1999 Kia Elan | |
| Make | Ford | Kia |
| Model | Fiesta | Elan |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1753 cc | 1793 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 76 HP | 149 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 132 Nm | 186 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 900 kg | 1068 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3750 mm | 3890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2260 mm |
