2008 Kia Spectra vs. 2009 Lexus GS
To start off, 2009 Lexus GS is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Kia Spectra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Kia Spectra would be higher. At 4,293 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Lexus GS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Lexus GS (279 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 141 more horse power than 2008 Kia Spectra. (138 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Lexus GS should accelerate faster than 2008 Kia Spectra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Lexus GS weights approximately 254 kg more than 2008 Kia Spectra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 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 2009 Lexus GS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Kia Spectra, 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, 2009 Lexus GS (417 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 233 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Kia Spectra. (184 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2009 Lexus GS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Kia Spectra. 2009 Lexus GS has automatic transmission and 2008 Kia Spectra has manual transmission. 2008 Kia Spectra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Lexus GS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Kia Spectra | 2009 Lexus GS | |
| Make | Kia | Lexus |
| Model | Spectra | GS |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1973 cc | 4293 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 279 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 184 Nm | 417 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.1:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1511 kg | 1765 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.1 L/100km | 12.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 75 L |
