2009 Kia Spectra vs. 1959 Lotus Elite
To start off, 2009 Kia Spectra is newer by 50 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Lotus Elite. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Lotus Elite would be higher. At 1,975 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Kia Spectra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Kia Spectra (138 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 1959 Lotus Elite. (71 HP @ 6100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Kia Spectra should accelerate faster than 1959 Lotus Elite. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Kia Spectra weights approximately 935 kg more than 1959 Lotus Elite. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1959 Lotus Elite 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 1959 Lotus Elite. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Kia Spectra, 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, 2009 Kia Spectra (184 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Lotus Elite. (104 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2009 Kia Spectra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Lotus Elite.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Kia Spectra | 1959 Lotus Elite | |
| Make | Kia | Lotus |
| Model | Spectra | Elite |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1959 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1975 cc | 1216 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 71 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 184 Nm | 104 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| 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 | 1515 kg | 580 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 3710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1510 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1190 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2240 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 29 L |
