1998 Kia Elan vs. 1989 Nissan Laurel
To start off, 1998 Kia Elan is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Nissan Laurel. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Nissan Laurel would be higher. At 1,997 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Nissan Laurel is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Kia Elan (151 HP) has 28 more horse power than 1989 Nissan Laurel. (123 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Kia Elan should accelerate faster than 1989 Nissan Laurel.
Because 1989 Nissan Laurel is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1989 Nissan Laurel. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Kia Elan, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Nissan Laurel. (171 Nm). This means 1998 Kia Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Nissan Laurel.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Kia Elan | 1989 Nissan Laurel | |
| Make | Kia | Nissan |
| Model | Elan | Laurel |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1793 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 151 HP | 123 HP |
| Torque | 186 Nm | 171 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Length | 3890 mm | 4700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2680 mm |
