1989 Ford Laser 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 Laser. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Ford Laser would be higher. At 1,840 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Ford Laser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Kia Elan (149 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1989 Ford Laser. (102 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Kia Elan should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Laser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Kia Elan weights approximately 13 kg more than 1989 Ford Laser. 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 35 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Ford Laser. (151 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1999 Kia Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Ford Laser.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Ford Laser | 1999 Kia Elan | |
| Make | Ford | Kia |
| Model | Laser | Elan |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1840 cc | 1793 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 102 HP | 149 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 151 Nm | 186 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1055 kg | 1068 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 3890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2260 mm |
