2006 Lexus IS vs. 2013 Kia Optima
To start off, 2013 Kia Optima is newer by 7 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 2,997 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Kia Optima (270 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 2006 Lexus IS. (211 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 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 77 kg more than 2013 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, 2013 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, 2013 Kia Optima (365 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 76 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Lexus IS. (289 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2013 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Lexus IS.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Lexus IS | 2013 Kia Optima | |
| Make | Lexus | Kia |
| Model | IS | Optima |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2997 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 211 HP | 270 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 289 Nm | 365 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 86 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1615 kg | 1538 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4845 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1455 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2795 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |
