2009 Kia Spectra vs. 1963 Lotus Elan
To start off, 2009 Kia Spectra is newer by 46 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 1,975 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Kia Spectra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Kia Spectra (136 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1963 Lotus Elan. (100 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Kia Spectra should accelerate faster than 1963 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Kia Spectra weights approximately 691 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, 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, 1963 Lotus Elan (138 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Kia Spectra. (136 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1963 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Kia Spectra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Kia Spectra | 1963 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Kia | Lotus |
| Model | Spectra | Elan |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1963 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1975 cc | 1498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 136 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 136 Nm | 138 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.1:1 | 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 | 1285 kg | 594 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 3700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1740 mm | 1150 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2140 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 45 L |
