2009 Kia Spectra vs. 2004 Lotus Elise
To start off, 2009 Kia Spectra is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Lotus Elise. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Lotus Elise 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 16 more horse power than 2004 Lotus Elise. (120 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Kia Spectra should accelerate faster than 2004 Lotus Elise. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Kia Spectra weights approximately 535 kg more than 2004 Lotus Elise. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Lotus Elise 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 2004 Lotus Elise. 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, 2004 Lotus Elise (172 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Kia Spectra. (136 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2004 Lotus Elise will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Kia Spectra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Kia Spectra | 2004 Lotus Elise | |
| Make | Kia | Lotus |
| Model | Spectra | Elise |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1975 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 136 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 136 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.1:1 | 11.0:1 |
| 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 | 1285 kg | 750 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 3790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1740 mm | 1150 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2310 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 31 L |
