1998 Lotus Elise vs. 1999 Kia Clarus
To start off, 1999 Kia Clarus is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Lotus Elise. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Lotus Elise would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Lotus Elise is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Kia Clarus (130 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1998 Lotus Elise. (116 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Kia Clarus should accelerate faster than 1998 Lotus Elise. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Kia Clarus weights approximately 525 kg more than 1998 Lotus Elise. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 Lotus Elise 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 1998 Lotus Elise. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Kia Clarus, 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, 1999 Kia Clarus (170 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Lotus Elise. (165 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1999 Kia Clarus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Lotus Elise. 1999 Kia Clarus has automatic transmission and 1998 Lotus Elise has manual transmission. 1998 Lotus Elise will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Kia Clarus will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Lotus Elise | 1999 Kia Clarus | |
Make | Lotus | Kia |
Model | Elise | Clarus |
Year Released | 1998 | 1999 |
Engine Position | Middle | Front |
Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1793 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 116 HP | 130 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 165 Nm | 170 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 705 kg | 1230 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3730 mm | 4740 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1780 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1210 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2670 mm |