2005 Kia Optima vs. 2002 Lexus IS
To start off, 2005 Kia Optima is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Lexus IS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Lexus IS would be higher. At 2,360 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Lexus IS (153 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 2005 Kia Optima. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 2005 Kia Optima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Kia Optima weights approximately 97 kg more than 2002 Lexus IS.
Because 2002 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 2002 Lexus IS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Kia Optima (199 Nm) has 4 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Lexus IS. (195 Nm). This means 2005 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Lexus IS.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Kia Optima | 2002 Lexus IS | |
| Make | Kia | Lexus |
| Model | Optima | IS |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2360 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 199 Nm | 195 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.1 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 100 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1497 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 70 L |
