2006 Kia Cerato vs. 2003 Lexus IS
To start off, 2006 Kia Cerato is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Lexus IS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Lexus IS would be higher. At 1,988 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Lexus IS (153 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 2006 Kia Cerato. (141 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 2006 Kia Cerato. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Lexus IS weights approximately 7 kg more than 2006 Kia Cerato. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 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 2003 Lexus IS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Kia Cerato, 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, 2003 Lexus IS (196 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Kia Cerato. (186 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2003 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Kia Cerato.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Kia Cerato | 2003 Lexus IS | |
| Make | Kia | Lexus |
| Model | Cerato | IS |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1974 cc | 1988 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 186 Nm | 196 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93.5 mm | 75 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1393 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 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 |
