1997 Lexus ES vs. 2009 Kia Forte
To start off, 2009 Kia Forte is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Lexus ES. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Lexus ES would be higher. At 2,997 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Lexus ES is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Lexus ES (210 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 2009 Kia Forte. (156 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Lexus ES should accelerate faster than 2009 Kia Forte. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Lexus ES weights approximately 298 kg more than 2009 Kia Forte. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1997 Lexus ES (304 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 109 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Kia Forte. (195 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 1997 Lexus ES will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Kia Forte. 1997 Lexus ES has automatic transmission and 2009 Kia Forte has manual transmission. 2009 Kia Forte will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Lexus ES will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Lexus ES | 2009 Kia Forte | |
| Make | Lexus | Kia |
| Model | ES | Forte |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2997 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 156 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 304 Nm | 195 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1530 kg | 1232 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 4481 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1765 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2649 mm |
