2009 Kia Optima vs. 1999 Kia Elan
To start off, 2009 Kia Optima 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 2,656 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Kia Optima (194 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1999 Kia Elan. (149 HP @ 6250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1999 Kia Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Kia Optima weights approximately 451 kg more than 1999 Kia Elan. 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, 2009 Kia Optima (250 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 64 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Kia Elan. (186 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2009 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Kia Elan. 2009 Kia Optima 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 Kia Optima will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Kia Optima | 1999 Kia Elan | |
| Make | Kia | Kia |
| Model | Optima | Elan |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2656 cc | 1793 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 194 HP | 149 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 186 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1519 kg | 1068 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 3890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2260 mm |
