2005 Kia Optima vs. 2002 Lexus SC
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 SC. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Lexus SC would be higher. At 4,298 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Lexus SC is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Lexus SC (312 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 142 more horse power than 2005 Kia Optima. (170 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Lexus SC should accelerate faster than 2005 Kia Optima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Lexus SC weights approximately 328 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.
Because 2002 Lexus SC 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 SC. 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, 2002 Lexus SC (447 Nm) has 206 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Kia Optima. (241 Nm). This means 2002 Lexus SC will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Kia Optima.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Kia Optima | 2002 Lexus SC | |
| Make | Kia | Lexus |
| Model | Optima | SC |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2671 cc | 4298 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 312 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 241 Nm | 447 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 91.4 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1487 kg | 1815 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2620 mm |
