2009 Kia Optima vs. 1997 Lexus LS
To start off, 2009 Kia Optima is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Lexus LS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Lexus LS would be higher. At 3,967 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Lexus LS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Lexus LS (280 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 105 more horse power than 2009 Kia Optima. (175 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Lexus LS should accelerate faster than 2009 Kia Optima.
Because 1997 Lexus LS 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 1997 Lexus LS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 1997 Lexus LS (398 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 169 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Kia Optima. (229 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Lexus LS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Kia Optima. 1997 Lexus LS has automatic transmission and 2009 Kia Optima has manual transmission. 2009 Kia Optima will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Lexus LS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Kia Optima | 1997 Lexus LS | |
Make | Kia | Lexus |
Model | Optima | LS |
Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2359 cc | 3967 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 175 HP | 280 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5900 RPM |
Torque | 229 Nm | 398 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4100 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.1:1 | 10.5:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 5010 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1840 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2800 mm |
Fuel Consumption | 7.5 L/100km | 9.3 L/100km |
Fuel Consumption City | 10.8 L/100km | 17.5 L/100km |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.6 L/100km | 12.3 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 85 L |