2003 Lexus LX vs. 2012 Kia Optima
To start off, 2012 Kia Optima is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Lexus LX. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Lexus LX would be higher. At 4,662 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Lexus LX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Kia Optima (274 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 2003 Lexus LX. (232 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 2003 Lexus LX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Lexus LX weights approximately 895 kg more than 2012 Kia Optima.
Because 2003 Lexus LX is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 Kia Optima. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Lexus LX 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, 2003 Lexus LX (434 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Kia Optima. (364 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2003 Lexus LX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Kia Optima.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Lexus LX | 2012 Kia Optima | |
| Make | Lexus | Kia |
| Model | LX | Optima |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4662 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 232 HP | 274 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 434 Nm | 364 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2430 kg | 1535 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4900 mm | 4844 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1950 mm | 1831 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1860 mm | 1455 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2797 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 70 L |
