1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1999 Kia Elan
To start off, 1999 Kia Elan is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser would be higher. At 2,429 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser (150 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 1999 Kia Elan. (149 HP @ 6250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1999 Kia Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 350 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.
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 Chrysler PT Cruiser (220 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Kia Elan. (186 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Kia Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1999 Kia Elan | |
| Make | Chrysler | Kia |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Elan |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 1793 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 149 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 186 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1418 kg | 1068 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2260 mm |
