2009 Kia Optima vs. 1999 Lexus IS
To start off, 2009 Kia Optima is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Lexus IS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Lexus IS would be higher. At 2,399 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Kia Optima (173 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1999 Lexus IS. (153 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1999 Lexus IS.
Because 1999 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 1999 Lexus IS. 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, 1999 Lexus IS (195 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Kia Optima. (169 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1999 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Kia Optima.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Kia Optima | 1999 Lexus IS | |
| Make | Kia | Lexus |
| Model | Optima | IS |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2399 cc | 1988 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 169 Nm | 195 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 91 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 96 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.1:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 70 L |
