1991 Lotus Elan vs. 2012 Kia Sorento
To start off, 2012 Kia Sorento is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 2,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Kia Sorento is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Kia Sorento (175 HP) has 15 more horse power than 1991 Lotus Elan. (160 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Kia Sorento should accelerate faster than 1991 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Kia Sorento weights approximately 747 kg more than 1991 Lotus Elan. 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, 2012 Kia Sorento (229 Nm) has 86 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Lotus Elan. (143 Nm). This means 2012 Kia Sorento will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Lotus Elan. 2012 Kia Sorento has automatic transmission and 1991 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1991 Lotus Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Kia Sorento will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1991 Lotus Elan | 2012 Kia Sorento | |
Make | Lotus | Kia |
Model | Elan | Sorento |
Year Released | 1991 | 2012 |
Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1588 cc | 2400 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 160 HP | 175 HP |
Torque | 143 Nm | 229 Nm |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 997 kg | 1744 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4671 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1885 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1709 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2700 mm |