2001 Lexus SC vs. 2012 Kia Optima
To start off, 2012 Kia Optima is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Lexus SC. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Lexus SC would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Lexus SC is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Kia Optima (274 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 2001 Lexus SC. (225 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 2001 Lexus SC. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Kia Optima weights approximately 60 kg more than 2001 Lexus SC. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 Lexus SC 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 2001 Lexus SC. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Kia Optima, 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, 2012 Kia Optima (364 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Lexus SC. (290 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2012 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Lexus SC. 2012 Kia Optima has automatic transmission and 2001 Lexus SC has manual transmission. 2001 Lexus SC will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Kia Optima will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2001 Lexus SC | 2012 Kia Optima | |
Make | Lexus | Kia |
Model | SC | Optima |
Year Released | 2001 | 2012 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2996 cc | 2000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 225 HP | 274 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 290 Nm | 364 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 1750 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1475 kg | 1535 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4844 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1831 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1455 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2797 mm |