1989 Honda Accord vs. 1998 Kia Elan
To start off, 1998 Kia Elan is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Honda Accord. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Honda Accord would be higher. At 1,955 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Honda Accord is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Kia Elan (151 HP) has 31 more horse power than 1989 Honda Accord. (120 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Kia Elan should accelerate faster than 1989 Honda Accord.
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, 1998 Kia Elan (186 Nm) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Honda Accord. (165 Nm). This means 1998 Kia Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Honda Accord.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Honda Accord | 1998 Kia Elan | |
| Make | Honda | Kia |
| Model | Accord | Elan |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1955 cc | 1793 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 151 HP |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 186 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 3890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2270 mm |
