2005 Lexus IS vs. 2012 Kia Forte
To start off, 2012 Kia Forte is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Lexus IS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Lexus IS would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Kia Forte is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Kia Forte (156 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 2005 Lexus IS. (153 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Kia Forte should accelerate faster than 2005 Lexus IS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Lexus IS weights approximately 218 kg more than 2012 Kia Forte.
Because 2005 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 2005 Lexus IS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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. 2012 Kia Forte has automatic transmission and 2005 Lexus IS has manual transmission. 2005 Lexus IS will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Kia Forte will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Lexus IS | 2012 Kia Forte | |
| Make | Lexus | Kia |
| Model | IS | Forte |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | 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 | 156 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 195 Nm | 195 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1506 kg | 1288 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4341 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1775 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1461 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2649 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 52 L |
