2009 BMW 118 vs. 1999 Kia Elan
To start off, 2009 BMW 118 is newer by 10 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 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 BMW 118 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Kia Elan (149 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 2009 BMW 118. (134 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Kia Elan should accelerate faster than 2009 BMW 118. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 118 weights approximately 317 kg more than 1999 Kia Elan.
Because 2009 BMW 118 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 2009 BMW 118. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Kia Elan, 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, 1999 Kia Elan (186 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW 118. (180 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1999 Kia Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW 118. 2009 BMW 118 has automatic transmission and 1999 Kia Elan has manual transmission. 1999 Kia Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 BMW 118 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 118 | 1999 Kia Elan | |
| Make | BMW | Kia |
| Model | 118 | Elan |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1793 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 149 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 186 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1068 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 3890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1750 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2260 mm |
