2008 Kia Sportage vs. 1991 Lotus Elan
To start off, 2008 Kia Sportage is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 2,656 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Kia Sportage is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Kia Sportage (174 HP) has 14 more horse power than 1991 Lotus Elan. (160 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Kia Sportage should accelerate faster than 1991 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Kia Sportage weights approximately 991 kg more than 1991 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Kia Sportage is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1991 Lotus Elan. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Kia Sportage will offer significantly more control. 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 Sportage (241 Nm) has 98 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Lotus Elan. (143 Nm). This means 2008 Kia Sportage will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Lotus Elan. 2008 Kia Sportage has automatic transmission and 1991 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1991 Lotus Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Kia Sportage will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Kia Sportage | 1991 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Kia | Lotus |
| Model | Sportage | Elan |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1991 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2656 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 174 HP | 160 HP |
| Torque | 241 Nm | 143 Nm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1988 kg | 997 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 3810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1700 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2260 mm |
