2004 Lexus IS vs. 2013 Kia Forte
To start off, 2013 Kia Forte is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Lexus IS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Lexus IS would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2013 Kia Forte is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Kia Forte (154 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 2004 Lexus IS. (153 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Kia Forte should accelerate faster than 2004 Lexus IS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Lexus IS weights approximately 162 kg more than 2013 Kia Forte.
Because 2004 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 2004 Lexus IS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2013 Kia Forte, 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, both vehicles can yield 195 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Lexus IS | 2013 Kia Forte | |
| Make | Lexus | Kia |
| Model | IS | Forte |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1988 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 154 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 195 Nm | 195 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 86 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1400 kg | 1238 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1775 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 52 L |
