1998 Kia Elan vs. 1994 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 1998 Kia Elan is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1994 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1994 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 2,799 cc (6 cylinders), 1994 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1994 Mercedes-Benz SL (190 HP) has 39 more horse power than 1998 Kia Elan. (151 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1994 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1998 Kia Elan.
Because 1994 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 1994 Mercedes-Benz SL. 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, 1994 Mercedes-Benz SL (271 Nm) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Kia Elan. (186 Nm). This means 1994 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Kia Elan. 1994 Mercedes-Benz SL 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. 1994 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Kia Elan | 1994 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Kia | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Elan | SL |
Year Released | 1998 | 1994 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1793 cc | 2799 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 151 HP | 190 HP |
Torque | 186 Nm | 271 Nm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Vehicle Length | 3890 mm | 4470 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2520 mm |