2009 Kia Magentis vs. 2003 Lexus IS

To start off, 2009 Kia Magentis is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Lexus IS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Lexus IS would be higher. At 2,997 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Lexus IS (201 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 2009 Kia Magentis. (142 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 2009 Kia Magentis. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Lexus IS weights approximately 52 kg more than 2009 Kia Magentis. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2003 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 2003 Lexus IS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Kia Magentis, 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, 2003 Lexus IS (296 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 107 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Kia Magentis. (189 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2003 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Kia Magentis. 2003 Lexus IS has automatic transmission and 2009 Kia Magentis has manual transmission. 2009 Kia Magentis will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Lexus IS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2009 Kia Magentis 2003 Lexus IS
Make Kia Lexus
Model Magentis IS
Year Released 2009 2003
Body Type Sedan Station Wagon
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1998 cc 2997 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 142 HP 201 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 5600 RPM
Torque 189 Nm 296 Nm
Torque RPM 4250 RPM 3800 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 10.5:1 10.5:1
Fuel Type Gasoline - Premium Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1488 kg 1540 kg
Vehicle Length 4740 mm 4510 mm
Vehicle Width 1810 mm 1730 mm
Vehicle Height 1490 mm 1440 mm
Wheelbase Size 2730 mm 2680 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 62 L 66 L