2005 Kia Spectra vs. 1968 Lotus Elan
To start off, 2005 Kia Spectra is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,594 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Kia Spectra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1968 Lotus Elan (116 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 2005 Kia Spectra. (100 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1968 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 2005 Kia Spectra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Kia Spectra weights approximately 244 kg more than 1968 Lotus Elan.
Because 1968 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 1968 Lotus Elan. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 1968 Lotus Elan (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Kia Spectra. (145 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1968 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Kia Spectra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Kia Spectra | 1968 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Kia | Lotus |
| Model | Spectra | Elan |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1968 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1594 cc | 1558 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 116 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 146 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.4 mm | 72.8 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1094 kg | 850 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 45 L |
