2006 Lexus IS vs. 2011 Kia Optima
To start off, 2011 Kia Optima is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Lexus IS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Lexus IS would be higher. At 2,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Kia Optima (200 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 2006 Lexus IS. (176 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 2006 Lexus IS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Lexus IS weights approximately 276 kg more than 2011 Kia Optima.
Because 2006 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 2006 Lexus IS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 2006 Lexus IS (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 148 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Kia Optima. (252 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2006 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Kia Optima.
Compare all specifications:
2006 Lexus IS | 2011 Kia Optima | |
Make | Lexus | Kia |
Model | IS | Optima |
Year Released | 2006 | 2011 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2231 cc | 2400 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 176 HP | 200 HP |
Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 6300 RPM |
Torque | 400 Nm | 252 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1730 kg | 1454 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 4844 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1831 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1455 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2797 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 70 L |