2008 Kia Rio vs. 1963 Lotus Elan
To start off, 2008 Kia Rio is newer by 45 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1963 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1963 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,599 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Kia Rio is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Kia Rio (110 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1963 Lotus Elan. (100 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Kia Rio should accelerate faster than 1963 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Kia Rio weights approximately 917 kg more than 1963 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1963 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 1963 Lotus Elan. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Kia Rio (145 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 1963 Lotus Elan. (138 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2008 Kia Rio will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1963 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Kia Rio | 1963 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Kia | Lotus |
| Model | Rio | Elan |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1963 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1599 cc | 1498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 138 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| 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 | 1511 kg | 594 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 3700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1150 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2140 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 45 L |
