1999 Kia Elan vs. 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 13 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata (167 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1999 Kia Elan. (149 HP @ 6250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1999 Kia Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 71 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 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata 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 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 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, 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 4 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Kia Elan. (186 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Kia Elan.
Compare all specifications:
1999 Kia Elan | 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
Make | Kia | Mazda |
Model | Elan | MX-5 Miata |
Year Released | 1999 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1793 cc | 2000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 149 HP | 167 HP |
Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 7000 RPM |
Torque | 186 Nm | 190 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
Vehicle Weight | 1068 kg | 1139 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3890 mm | 3995 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1245 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2329 mm |