1999 Kia Elan vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 7 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 3,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz E (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 119 more horse power than 1999 Kia Elan. (149 HP @ 6250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1999 Kia Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 717 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 2006 Mercedes-Benz E 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 2006 Mercedes-Benz E. 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz E (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 164 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Kia Elan. (186 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Kia Elan. 2006 Mercedes-Benz E has automatic transmission and 1999 Kia Elan has manual transmission. 1999 Kia Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Kia Elan | 2006 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Kia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Elan | E |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1793 cc | 3497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 149 HP | 268 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 186 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1068 kg | 1785 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3890 mm | 4820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2860 mm |
