1998 Kia Elan vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL is newer by 14 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 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL (210 HP) has 59 more horse power than 1998 Kia Elan. (151 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL should accelerate faster than 1998 Kia Elan.
Because 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Kia Elan. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL (542 Nm) has 356 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Kia Elan. (186 Nm). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Kia Elan. 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL 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. 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Kia Elan | 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL | |
| Make | Kia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Elan | GL |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1793 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 151 HP | 210 HP |
| Torque | 186 Nm | 542 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Vehicle Length | 3890 mm | 5098 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1989 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1839 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 3076 mm |
