Kia Elan

vs

Chrysler Crossfire

South Korea vs USA — 1996 vs 2005

Kia Elan (1996)
Chrysler Crossfire (2005)
Specifications
ElanCrossfire SRT-6
Horsepower151 hp330 hp
Torque310 lb-ft
Engine Size1,793 cc3,199 cc
0-60 mph5.0 sec
Top Speed157 mph
¼ Mile13.5 sec
Weight3,271 lbs
Wheelbase2,355 mm2,400 mm
Length3,890 mm4,060 mm
Units Produced1,056
Original MSRP$44,375
Value (Excellent)$18,000$30,000
Collectibility5/105/10
Rarity10/106/10
The Verdict

It's a closely fought contest. The 1996 Kia Elan brings better value to the table, and the 2005 Chrysler Crossfire SRT-6 answers with more power. Both are excellent machines that reward their owners in different ways — there's no wrong answer here.

Overview

The rivalry between South Korea and USA automotive industries has produced legendary matchups, and the 1996 Kia Elan versus 2005 Chrysler Crossfire SRT-6 is among the most fascinating. These two cars represent the best of their national engineering schools. The 2005 Chrysler Crossfire SRT-6 holds a clear advantage in raw power with 330 hp compared to 151 hp, a 179-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Kia Elan uses a Inline-4 displacing 1,793 cc, while the Chrysler Crossfire relies on a V6 SOHC Supercharged with 3,199 cc. Each of these machines offers a unique window into the era that produced it, making both worthy of consideration by collectors and drivers alike.