2004 Kia Optima vs. 2007 Lexus IS
To start off, 2007 Lexus IS is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Kia Optima. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Kia Optima would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Lexus IS (211 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 2004 Kia Optima. (170 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 2004 Kia Optima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Lexus IS weights approximately 88 kg more than 2004 Kia Optima. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2007 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 2007 Lexus IS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2007 Lexus IS (288 Nm) has 43 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Kia Optima. (245 Nm). This means 2007 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Kia Optima.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Kia Optima | 2007 Lexus IS | |
| Make | Kia | Lexus |
| Model | Optima | IS |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2671 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 211 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 288 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1487 kg | 1575 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.2 L/100km | 10.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 70 L |
