2006 Kia Optima vs. 1999 Kia Elan
To start off, 2006 Kia Optima is newer by 7 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 2,351 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Kia Elan (149 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 2006 Kia Optima. (138 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Kia Elan should accelerate faster than 2006 Kia Optima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Kia Optima weights approximately 932 kg more than 1999 Kia 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, 2006 Kia Optima (199 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Kia Elan. (186 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2006 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Kia Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Kia Optima | 1999 Kia Elan | |
| Make | Kia | Kia |
| Model | Optima | Elan |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2351 cc | 1793 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 149 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 199 Nm | 186 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 2000 kg | 1068 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 3890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2260 mm |
