1998 Kia Clarus vs. 1989 Lexus LS
To start off, 1998 Kia Clarus is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Lexus LS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Lexus LS would be higher. At 3,969 cc (8 cylinders), 1989 Lexus LS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Lexus LS (242 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 128 more horse power than 1998 Kia Clarus. (114 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Lexus LS should accelerate faster than 1998 Kia Clarus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Lexus LS weights approximately 594 kg more than 1998 Kia Clarus. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 Lexus LS 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 1989 Lexus LS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Kia Clarus, 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, 1989 Lexus LS (350 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 198 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Kia Clarus. (152 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1989 Lexus LS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Kia Clarus.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Kia Clarus | 1989 Lexus LS | |
| Make | Kia | Lexus |
| Model | Clarus | LS |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1793 cc | 3969 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 242 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 152 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1224 kg | 1818 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4700 mm | 5000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2820 mm |
