2002 Kia Optima vs. 2006 Lexus IS
To start off, 2006 Lexus IS is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Kia Optima. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Kia Optima would be higher. At 2,497 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Lexus IS (153 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 2002 Kia Optima. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 2002 Kia Optima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Lexus IS weights approximately 73 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 2006 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 2006 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 Kia Optima (216 Nm) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Lexus IS. (195 Nm). This means 2002 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Lexus IS.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Kia Optima | 2006 Lexus IS | |
| Make | Kia | Lexus |
| Model | Optima | IS |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 1988 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 216 Nm | 195 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1432 kg | 1505 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 |
