2002 Lexus SC vs. 2012 Kia Optima
To start off, 2012 Kia Optima is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Lexus SC. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Lexus SC would be higher. At 4,291 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Lexus SC is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Lexus SC (278 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 2012 Kia Optima. (274 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Lexus SC should accelerate faster than 2012 Kia Optima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Lexus SC weights approximately 205 kg more than 2012 Kia Optima. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 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 2002 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, 2002 Lexus SC (447 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 83 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Kia Optima. (364 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2002 Lexus SC will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Kia Optima.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Lexus SC | 2012 Kia Optima | |
| Make | Lexus | Kia |
| Model | SC | Optima |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4291 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 278 HP | 274 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 447 Nm | 364 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1740 kg | 1535 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4844 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1831 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1455 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2797 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 70 L |
