2007 Kia Rio vs. 1968 Lotus Elan
To start off, 2007 Kia Rio is newer by 39 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 1,558 cc (4 cylinders), 1968 Lotus Elan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1968 Lotus Elan (116 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 2007 Kia Rio. (94 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1968 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 2007 Kia Rio. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Kia Rio weights approximately 214 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, 2007 Kia Rio, 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 21 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Kia Rio. (125 Nm @ 6500 RPM). This means 1968 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Kia Rio. 2007 Kia Rio has automatic transmission and 1968 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1968 Lotus Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 Kia Rio will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Kia Rio | 1968 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Kia | Lotus |
| Model | Rio | Elan |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1968 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1399 cc | 1558 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 94 HP | 116 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 125 Nm | 146 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 6500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1064 kg | 850 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1680 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 45 L |
