1998 Kia Elan vs. 2012 Volvo XC90
To start off, 2012 Volvo XC90 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 3,200 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Volvo XC90 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volvo XC90 (240 HP) has 89 more horse power than 1998 Kia Elan. (151 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volvo XC90 should accelerate faster than 1998 Kia Elan.
Because 2012 Volvo XC90 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Kia Elan. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Volvo XC90 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 Volvo XC90 (320 Nm) has 134 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Kia Elan. (186 Nm). This means 2012 Volvo XC90 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Kia Elan. 2012 Volvo XC90 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 Volvo XC90 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Kia Elan | 2012 Volvo XC90 | |
| Make | Kia | Volvo |
| Model | Elan | XC90 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1793 cc | 3200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 151 HP | 240 HP |
| Torque | 186 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Vehicle Length | 3890 mm | 4808 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1897 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1783 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2860 mm |
