2009 Kia Sportage vs. 1968 Lotus Elan
To start off, 2009 Kia Sportage is newer by 41 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,974 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Kia Sportage is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Kia Sportage (139 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1968 Lotus Elan. (116 HP @ 6250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Kia Sportage should accelerate faster than 1968 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Kia Sportage weights approximately 435 kg more than 1968 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1968 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 1968 Lotus Elan. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Kia Sportage, 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 Sportage (188 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 Lotus Elan. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Kia Sportage will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1968 Lotus Elan. 2009 Kia Sportage has automatic transmission and 1968 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1968 Lotus Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Kia Sportage will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Kia Sportage | 1968 Lotus Elan | |
Make | Kia | Lotus |
Model | Sportage | Elan |
Year Released | 2009 | 1968 |
Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1974 cc | 1558 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 139 HP | 116 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6250 RPM |
Torque | 188 Nm | 146 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 82.6 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 93.5 mm | 72.8 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1285 kg | 850 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 4290 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1680 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1700 mm | 1200 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2440 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 58 L | 45 L |