1992 Lotus Elan vs. 2011 Kia Optima
To start off, 2011 Kia Optima is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1992 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1992 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Kia Optima (274 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 111 more horse power than 1992 Lotus Elan. (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1992 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Kia Optima weights approximately 515 kg more than 1992 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, 2011 Kia Optima (364 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 160 more torque (in Nm) than 1992 Lotus Elan. (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2011 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1992 Lotus Elan. 2011 Kia Optima has automatic transmission and 1992 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1992 Lotus Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Kia Optima will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1992 Lotus Elan | 2011 Kia Optima | |
| Make | Lotus | Kia |
| Model | Elan | Optima |
| Year Released | 1992 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1587 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 274 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 204 Nm | 364 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1535 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4844 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1831 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1455 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2797 mm |
