1998 Kia Clarus vs. 2012 Lexus LS
To start off, 2012 Lexus LS is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Kia Clarus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Kia Clarus would be higher. At 5,000 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Lexus LS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Lexus LS (438 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 324 more horse power than 1998 Kia Clarus. (114 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Lexus LS should accelerate faster than 1998 Kia Clarus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Lexus LS weights approximately 1136 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 2012 Lexus LS is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Kia Clarus. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Lexus LS will offer significantly more control. 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, 2012 Lexus LS (521 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 369 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Kia Clarus. (152 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2012 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 | 2012 Lexus LS | |
| Make | Kia | Lexus |
| Model | Clarus | LS |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1793 cc | 5000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 438 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 152 Nm | 521 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | AWD |
| Vehicle Weight | 1224 kg | 2360 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4700 mm | 5179 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1875 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1481 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 3091 mm |
