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Kia Elan: The Lotus Elan M100 alternative from South Korea and what to know when buying
The Kia Elan is a two-seater convertible sports car produced in South Korea from 1996 to 1999, based on the Lotus Elan (M100) design. We explain how it's connected to Lotus, what engine it has, and what to check if you come across one in the used market.
Kia Elan in brief
The Kia Elan is a second-generation Lotus Elan (Type M100) version, produced by Kia Motors in South Korea from 1996 to 1999. The original Lotus Elan was produced from 1989 to 1995, and Kia took over its production, selling the car as the Kia Elan.
It's a two-seater convertible sports car with front-wheel drive—a rare feature among sports cars, which usually have rear-wheel drive. The car is very rare, so in Lithuania, you'll only find it in isolated examples.
What sets it apart
The Elan is well-regarded for its handling: a light body, precise steering, and a well-sorted suspension provide driving pleasure, despite the front-wheel drive. That's the main reason the Elan is favoured by enthusiasts.
The body is made from composite materials and has a foldable fabric roof. The interior is snug and focused on the driver, while the boot is small—the car is designed not for long trips with lots of luggage, but for enjoyable driving.
Engine and gearbox
The Kia Elan featured a 1.8-litre four-cylinder petrol engine with dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), rated at around 150hp. Always verify exact figures with the specific car's documents.
The gearbox is a five-speed manual. The car is light, so this power is sufficient for spirited driving, though it lacks outright sporty performance.
What to check when buying a Kia Elan
First, establish the car's provenance and check the paperwork. Inspect the body for cracks, signs of repair, and the condition of the underside, especially if the car has been driven in winter. Also, check the roof's condition.
Specific parts (body, lights, interior) are almost non-existent in Lithuania, so check availability before buying. Some parts may fit the Lotus Elan M100, so it's worth searching under that name too.
Trim levels
Trim names and equipment vary by market and year; the Kia Elan had one main variant.
Standartinė versija
1996–1999 model yearsA two-seater open-top sports car with a 1.8-litre engine and front-wheel drive.
- A foldable fabric roof
- Often fitted with lightweight alloy wheels
- Equipment varies by market and year
Kia Elan vs Lotus Elan comparison
| Kia Elan | Lotus Elan (M100) | |
|---|---|---|
| Transmission | Front wheels | Front wheels |
| Make | Kia Motors | Lotus |
| Who it's for | Those seeking a rarer and cheaper alternative | Collectors and Lotus enthusiasts |
| Price in the used market (relatively) | €€ | €€€ |
The Kia Elan is technically the same car but often cheaper than the Lotus version. If the badge matters to you, go for the Lotus, but if it's the driving experience you're after, the Kia Elan is also a great choice.
Pros
- Excellent handling and a light body
- A two-seater open-top sports car
- A rare, unique automobile
- Often cheaper than the Lotus Elan
Cons
- Finding parts in Lithuania is very challenging
- Small boot and cramped interior
- Rare, so it's hard to gauge the price
Frequently asked questions
Is the Kia Elan the same as the Lotus Elan?
Yes, it's the second-generation Lotus Elan (M100) version, which Kia produced in South Korea from 1996 to 1999.
Does the Elan have rear-wheel drive?
No. The Elan is front-wheel drive, although it's praised for its sporty handling.
Is the Kia Elan worth buying?
It is, if you fancy a rare, lightweight convertible and can source parts. Before buying, check the bodywork and roof.
Updated 2026-10-21 · Trim levels and equipment vary by market and model year — check the equipment of the specific car. · Translated automatically
