1999 Kia Elan vs. 1987 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 1999 Kia Elan is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Lotus Esprit would be higher. At 2,174 cc (4 cylinders), 1987 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Lotus Esprit (172 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1999 Kia Elan. (149 HP @ 6250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1987 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1999 Kia Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Lotus Esprit weights approximately 36 kg more than 1999 Kia Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1987 Lotus Esprit 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 1987 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Kia Elan, 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, 1987 Lotus Esprit (221 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Kia Elan. (186 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1987 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Kia Elan.
Compare all specifications:
1999 Kia Elan | 1987 Lotus Esprit | |
Make | Kia | Lotus |
Model | Elan | Esprit |
Year Released | 1999 | 1987 |
Engine Position | Front | Middle |
Engine Size | 1793 cc | 2174 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 149 HP | 172 HP |
Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 186 Nm | 221 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 1068 kg | 1104 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3890 mm | 4340 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1870 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1140 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2460 mm |