2004 Kia Spectra vs. 1969 Lotus Elan
To start off, 2004 Kia Spectra is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,786 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Kia Spectra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Kia Spectra (125 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1969 Lotus Elan. (118 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Kia Spectra should accelerate faster than 1969 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Kia Spectra weights approximately 334 kg more than 1969 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1969 Lotus Elan 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 1969 Lotus Elan. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Kia Spectra, 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, 2004 Kia Spectra (161 Nm) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Lotus Elan. (146 Nm). This means 2004 Kia Spectra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Kia Spectra | 1969 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Kia | Lotus |
| Model | Spectra | Elan |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1969 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1786 cc | 1558 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 125 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 161 Nm | 146 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 87 mm | 72.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1223 kg | 889 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 59 L |
