1999 Kia Elan vs. 2011 BMW 120
To start off, 2011 BMW 120 is newer by 12 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 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 BMW 120 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Kia Elan (149 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 2011 BMW 120. (143 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Kia Elan should accelerate faster than 2011 BMW 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW 120 weights approximately 492 kg more than 1999 Kia Elan.
Because 2011 BMW 120 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 2011 BMW 120. 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, 2011 BMW 120 (300 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 114 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Kia Elan. (186 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2011 BMW 120 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Kia Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Kia Elan | 2011 BMW 120 | |
| Make | Kia | BMW |
| Model | Elan | 120 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1793 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 149 HP | 143 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 186 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1068 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3890 mm | 4360 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1748 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1411 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2660 mm |
