2004 Kia Optima vs. 2011 Lexus IS
To start off, 2011 Lexus IS is newer by 7 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 2,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Lexus IS (204 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 2004 Kia Optima. (137 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 2004 Kia Optima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Lexus IS weights approximately 79 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 2011 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 2011 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, 2011 Lexus IS (251 Nm) has 52 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Kia Optima. (199 Nm). This means 2011 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 | 2011 Lexus IS | |
| Make | Kia | Lexus |
| Model | Optima | IS |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2360 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 137 HP | 204 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 199 Nm | 251 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1488 kg | 1567 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1801 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1425 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2728 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 7.8 L/100km | 8.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 10.2 L/100km | 12.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 65 L |
