1998 Kia Elan vs. 2009 Kia Rondo
To start off, 2009 Kia Rondo is newer by 11 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 2,399 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Kia Rondo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Kia Rondo (173 HP) has 22 more horse power than 1998 Kia Elan. (151 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Kia Rondo should accelerate faster than 1998 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 Kia Elan (186 Nm) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Kia Rondo. (169 Nm). This means 1998 Kia Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Kia Rondo. 2009 Kia Rondo 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. 2009 Kia Rondo will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Kia Elan | 2009 Kia Rondo | |
| Make | Kia | Kia |
| Model | Elan | Rondo |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1793 cc | 2399 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 151 HP | 173 HP |
| Torque | 186 Nm | 169 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Length | 3890 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1710 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2710 mm |
