2007 Kia Picanto vs. 1996 Lotus Elan
To start off, 2007 Kia Picanto is newer by 11 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 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Lotus Elan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Lotus Elan (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 99 more horse power than 2007 Kia Picanto. (64 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 2007 Kia Picanto. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Lotus Elan weights approximately 92 kg more than 2007 Kia Picanto. 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, 1996 Lotus Elan (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 105 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Kia Picanto. (99 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1996 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Kia Picanto. 2007 Kia Picanto has automatic transmission and 1996 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1996 Lotus Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 Kia Picanto will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Kia Picanto | 1996 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Kia | Lotus |
| Model | Picanto | Elan |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1085 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 64 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 99 Nm | 204 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 928 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3500 mm | 3810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2380 mm | 2260 mm |
