1999 Kia Elan vs. 2002 Lotus Elise
To start off, 2002 Lotus Elise is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Kia Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Kia Elan would be higher. At 1,795 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Lotus Elise is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Kia Elan (149 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 2002 Lotus Elise. (120 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Kia Elan should accelerate faster than 2002 Lotus Elise. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Kia Elan weights approximately 318 kg more than 2002 Lotus Elise. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 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 2002 Lotus Elise. 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, 1999 Kia Elan (186 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Lotus Elise. (168 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1999 Kia Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Lotus Elise.
Compare all specifications:
1999 Kia Elan | 2002 Lotus Elise | |
Make | Kia | Lotus |
Model | Elan | Elise |
Year Released | 1999 | 2002 |
Engine Position | Front | Middle |
Engine Size | 1793 cc | 1795 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 149 HP | 120 HP |
Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 186 Nm | 168 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 1068 kg | 750 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3890 mm | 3790 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1150 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2310 mm |