2004 Kia Optima vs. 1996 Lotus Elan
To start off, 2004 Kia Optima is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 2,398 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Lotus Elan (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 2004 Kia Optima. (138 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 2004 Kia Optima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Kia Optima weights approximately 529 kg more than 1996 Lotus Elan.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1996 Lotus Elan (204 Nm) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Kia Optima. (199 Nm). This means 1996 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Kia Optima.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Kia Optima | 1996 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Kia | Lotus |
| Model | Optima | Elan |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2398 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 199 Nm | 204 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1549 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 3810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2260 mm |
