1998 Ford Taurus 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 Ford Taurus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Ford Taurus would be higher. At 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Ford Taurus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Ford Taurus (200 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 1999 Kia Elan. (149 HP @ 6250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Ford Taurus should accelerate faster than 1999 Kia 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, 1998 Ford Taurus (264 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 78 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Kia Elan. (186 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1998 Ford Taurus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Kia Elan. 1998 Ford Taurus has automatic transmission and 1999 Kia Elan has manual transmission. 1999 Kia Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Ford Taurus will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Taurus | 1999 Kia Elan | |
| Make | Ford | Kia |
| Model | Taurus | Elan |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3000 cc | 1793 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 149 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 264 Nm | 186 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
