2008 Kia Sportage vs. 1999 Lexus RX
To start off, 2008 Kia Sportage is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Lexus RX. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Lexus RX would be higher. At 2,995 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 Lexus RX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Lexus RX (220 HP) has 81 more horse power than 2008 Kia Sportage. (139 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Lexus RX should accelerate faster than 2008 Kia Sportage. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Lexus RX weights approximately 888 kg more than 2008 Kia Sportage. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 Lexus RX 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 1999 Lexus RX. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Kia Sportage, 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, 1999 Lexus RX (301 Nm) has 117 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Kia Sportage. (184 Nm). This means 1999 Lexus RX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Kia Sportage. 1999 Lexus RX has automatic transmission and 2008 Kia Sportage has manual transmission. 2008 Kia Sportage will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Lexus RX will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Kia Sportage | 1999 Lexus RX | |
| Make | Kia | Lexus |
| Model | Sportage | RX |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1999 |
| Body Type | SUV | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1974 cc | 2995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 220 HP |
| Torque | 184 Nm | 301 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1542 kg | 2430 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1740 mm | 1680 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2630 mm |
