2005 Kia Spectra vs. 2001 Lexus IS
To start off, 2005 Kia Spectra is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Lexus IS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Lexus IS would be higher. At 1,986 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Lexus IS (153 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 2005 Kia Spectra. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 2005 Kia Spectra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Lexus IS weights approximately 118 kg more than 2005 Kia Spectra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 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 2001 Lexus IS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Kia Spectra, 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, 2001 Lexus IS (195 Nm) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Kia Spectra. (184 Nm). This means 2001 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Kia Spectra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Kia Spectra | 2001 Lexus IS | |
| Make | Kia | Lexus |
| Model | Spectra | IS |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1975 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 | 184 Nm | 195 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.1:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1282 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
