1999 Kia Elan vs. 2009 Suzuki Equator
To start off, 2009 Suzuki Equator 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 3,954 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Suzuki Equator is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Suzuki Equator (262 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 113 more horse power than 1999 Kia Elan. (149 HP @ 6250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Suzuki Equator should accelerate faster than 1999 Kia Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Kia Elan weights approximately 3 kg more than 2009 Suzuki Equator.
Because 2009 Suzuki Equator 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 Suzuki Equator. 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 Suzuki Equator (381 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 195 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Kia Elan. (186 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2009 Suzuki Equator will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Kia Elan. 2009 Suzuki Equator 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 Suzuki Equator will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Kia Elan | 2009 Suzuki Equator | |
| Make | Kia | Suzuki |
| Model | Elan | Equator |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1793 cc | 3954 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 149 HP | 262 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 186 Nm | 381 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1068 kg | 1065 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3890 mm | 5600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1790 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 3560 mm |
