2003 Kia Retona vs. 2007 Lexus IS
To start off, 2007 Lexus IS is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Kia Retona. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Kia Retona would be higher. At 2,491 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Lexus IS (205 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 115 more horse power than 2003 Kia Retona. (90 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 2003 Kia Retona. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Kia Retona weights approximately 304 kg more than 2007 Lexus IS.
Because 2003 Kia Retona is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2007 Lexus IS. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Kia Retona 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, 2007 Lexus IS (252 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 47 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Kia Retona. (205 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2007 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Kia Retona. 2007 Lexus IS has automatic transmission and 2003 Kia Retona has manual transmission. 2003 Kia Retona will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 Lexus IS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Kia Retona | 2007 Lexus IS | |
| Make | Kia | Lexus |
| Model | Retona | IS |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2007 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 2491 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 205 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 205 Nm | 252 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 77 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1870 kg | 1566 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4010 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1840 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2370 mm | 2740 mm |
