2002 Kia Optima vs. 2002 Lexus IS
To start off, both 2002 Kia Optima and 2002 Lexus IS were released in the same year (2002). Therefore the support and the availability on parts for both vehicles should be relatively similar. At 2,999 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Lexus IS (201 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 63 more horse power than 2002 Kia Optima. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 2002 Kia Optima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Lexus IS weights approximately 108 kg more than 2002 Kia Optima. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Lexus IS 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 2002 Lexus IS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 2002 Lexus IS (296 Nm) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Kia Optima. (216 Nm). This means 2002 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Kia Optima. 2002 Lexus IS has automatic transmission and 2002 Kia Optima has manual transmission. 2002 Kia Optima will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Lexus IS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2002 Kia Optima | 2002 Lexus IS | |
Make | Kia | Lexus |
Model | Optima | IS |
Year Released | 2002 | 2002 |
Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2497 cc | 2999 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 201 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 216 Nm | 296 Nm |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1432 kg | 1540 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4510 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2680 mm |