2006 Kia Optima vs. 1998 Lexus GS
To start off, 2006 Kia Optima is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Lexus GS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Lexus GS would be higher. At 3,969 cc (8 cylinders), 1998 Lexus GS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Lexus GS (290 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 152 more horse power than 2006 Kia Optima. (138 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Lexus GS should accelerate faster than 2006 Kia Optima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Kia Optima weights approximately 260 kg more than 1998 Lexus GS.
Because 1998 Lexus GS 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 1998 Lexus GS. 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, 1998 Lexus GS (415 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 216 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Kia Optima. (199 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 Lexus GS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Kia Optima. 1998 Lexus GS has automatic transmission and 2006 Kia Optima has manual transmission. 2006 Kia Optima will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Lexus GS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Kia Optima | 1998 Lexus GS | |
| Make | Kia | Lexus |
| Model | Optima | GS |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2351 cc | 3969 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 290 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 199 Nm | 415 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2000 kg | 1740 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2810 mm |
