1998 Kia Elan vs. 2000 Smart ForTwo
To start off, 2000 Smart ForTwo is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Kia Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Kia Elan 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 111 more horse power than 2000 Smart ForTwo. (40 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Kia Elan should accelerate faster than 2000 Smart ForTwo.
Because 2000 Smart ForTwo 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 2000 Smart ForTwo. 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 86 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Smart ForTwo. (100 Nm). This means 1998 Kia Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Smart ForTwo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Kia Elan | 2000 Smart ForTwo | |
| Make | Kia | Smart |
| Model | Elan | ForTwo |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2000 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1793 cc | 799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 151 HP | 40 HP |
| Torque | 186 Nm | 100 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Length | 3890 mm | 2510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 1820 mm |
