1989 Lotus Elan vs. 2004 Kia Cerato
To start off, 2004 Kia Cerato is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Kia Cerato is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Lotus Elan (165 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 2004 Kia Cerato. (101 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 2004 Kia Cerato. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Kia Cerato weights approximately 175 kg more than 1989 Lotus Elan.
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, 1989 Lotus Elan (201 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Kia Cerato. (143 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1989 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Kia Cerato. 2004 Kia Cerato has automatic transmission and 1989 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1989 Lotus Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Kia Cerato will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Lotus Elan | 2004 Kia Cerato | |
| Make | Lotus | Kia |
| Model | Elan | Cerato |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 165 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 201 Nm | 143 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1195 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2620 mm |
