1999 Kia Elan vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 10 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 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (181 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1999 Kia Elan. (149 HP @ 6250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1999 Kia Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 422 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 2009 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (250 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 64 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Kia Elan. (186 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Kia Elan. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C 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. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1999 Kia Elan | 2009 Mercedes-Benz C | |
Make | Kia | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Elan | C |
Year Released | 1999 | 2009 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1793 cc | 1796 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 149 HP | 181 HP |
Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 186 Nm | 250 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2800 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Vehicle Weight | 1068 kg | 1490 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3890 mm | 4590 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1780 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1450 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2770 mm |