2005 Kia Optima vs. 1998 Lexus ES
To start off, 2005 Kia Optima is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Lexus ES. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Lexus ES would be higher. At 2,997 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Lexus ES is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Lexus ES (218 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 2005 Kia Optima. (170 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Lexus ES should accelerate faster than 2005 Kia Optima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Lexus ES weights approximately 43 kg more than 2005 Kia Optima. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1998 Lexus ES (304 Nm) has 63 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Kia Optima. (241 Nm). This means 1998 Lexus ES will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Kia Optima.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Kia Optima | 1998 Lexus ES | |
| Make | Kia | Lexus |
| Model | Optima | ES |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2671 cc | 2997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 218 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 241 Nm | 304 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1487 kg | 1530 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2680 mm |
