2006 Kia Optima vs. 1992 Lexus SC
To start off, 2006 Kia Optima is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1992 Lexus SC. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1992 Lexus SC would be higher. At 2,997 cc (6 cylinders), 1992 Lexus SC is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1992 Lexus SC (225 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 2006 Kia Optima. (170 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1992 Lexus SC should accelerate faster than 2006 Kia Optima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1992 Lexus SC weights approximately 134 kg more than 2006 Kia Optima. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1992 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 1992 Lexus SC. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 1992 Lexus SC (285 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Kia Optima. (245 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1992 Lexus SC will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Kia Optima.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Kia Optima | 1992 Lexus SC | |
| Make | Kia | Lexus |
| Model | Optima | SC |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1992 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2671 cc | 2997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 225 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 285 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.7 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1488 kg | 1622 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2700 mm |
