1991 Honda NSX vs. 1999 Kia Elan
To start off, 1999 Kia Elan is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Honda NSX. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Honda NSX would be higher. At 2,977 cc (6 cylinders), 1991 Honda NSX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Honda NSX (281 HP @ 7300 RPM) has 132 more horse power than 1999 Kia Elan. (149 HP @ 6250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1991 Honda NSX should accelerate faster than 1999 Kia Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Honda NSX weights approximately 302 kg more than 1999 Kia Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1991 Honda NSX 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 1991 Honda NSX. 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, 1991 Honda NSX (294 Nm @ 5400 RPM) has 108 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Kia Elan. (186 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1991 Honda NSX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Kia Elan.
Compare all specifications:
1991 Honda NSX | 1999 Kia Elan | |
Make | Honda | Kia |
Model | NSX | Elan |
Year Released | 1991 | 1999 |
Engine Position | Middle | Front |
Engine Size | 2977 cc | 1793 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 281 HP | 149 HP |
Engine RPM | 7300 RPM | 6250 RPM |
Torque | 294 Nm | 186 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5400 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 1370 kg | 1068 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 3890 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1740 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1180 mm | 1280 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2540 mm | 2260 mm |