1999 Kia Elan vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz S 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 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz S (302 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 153 more horse power than 1999 Kia Elan. (149 HP @ 6250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1999 Kia Elan.
Because 2011 Mercedes-Benz S 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 Mercedes-Benz S. 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 Mercedes-Benz S (370 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 184 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Kia Elan. (186 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Kia Elan. 2011 Mercedes-Benz S 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. 2011 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Kia Elan | 2011 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Kia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Elan | S |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1793 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 149 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 186 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Vehicle Length | 3890 mm | 5096 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1872 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1473 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 3165 mm |
