1999 Kia Clarus vs. 2007 Lotus Elise
To start off, 2007 Lotus Elise is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Kia Clarus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Kia Clarus would be higher. At 1,794 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Lotus Elise is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Lotus Elise (189 HP @ 7800 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 1999 Kia Clarus. (130 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1999 Kia Clarus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Kia Clarus weights approximately 280 kg more than 2007 Lotus Elise.
Because 2007 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 2007 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, 2007 Lotus Elise (180 Nm @ 6800 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Kia Clarus. (170 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2007 Lotus Elise will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Kia Clarus.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Kia Clarus | 2007 Lotus Elise | |
| Make | Kia | Lotus |
| Model | Clarus | Elise |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1793 cc | 1794 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 130 HP | 189 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 7800 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1230 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 3790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1120 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2310 mm |
