2006 Kia Optima vs. 1989 Lotus Elan
To start off, 2006 Kia Optima is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 2,671 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Kia Optima (170 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 1989 Lotus Elan. (165 HP @ 6600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1989 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Kia Optima weights approximately 468 kg more than 1989 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2006 Kia Optima (245 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Lotus Elan. (201 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2006 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
2006 Kia Optima | 1989 Lotus Elan | |
Make | Kia | Lotus |
Model | Optima | Elan |
Year Released | 2006 | 1989 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2671 cc | 1588 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 170 HP | 165 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6600 RPM |
Torque | 245 Nm | 201 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 86.7 mm | 80.1 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 79 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.2:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1488 kg | 1020 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 3810 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1740 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1240 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2260 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 65 L |