1998 Kia Elan vs. 1989 Mitsubishi Minica
To start off, 1998 Kia Elan is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Mitsubishi Minica. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Mitsubishi Minica would be higher. At 1,793 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Kia Elan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Kia Elan (151 HP) has 121 more horse power than 1989 Mitsubishi Minica. (30 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Kia Elan should accelerate faster than 1989 Mitsubishi Minica.
Because 1989 Mitsubishi Minica is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Kia Elan. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Mitsubishi Minica will offer significantly more control. 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 Kia Elan (186 Nm) has 144 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mitsubishi Minica. (42 Nm). This means 1998 Kia Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mitsubishi Minica. 1989 Mitsubishi Minica has automatic transmission and 1998 Kia Elan has manual transmission. 1998 Kia Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1989 Mitsubishi Minica will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Kia Elan | 1989 Mitsubishi Minica | |
| Make | Kia | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Elan | Minica |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1793 cc | 548 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 151 HP | 30 HP |
| Torque | 186 Nm | 42 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Length | 3890 mm | 3200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1400 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2270 mm |
