2009 Kia Optima vs. 2002 Lexus IS
To start off, 2009 Kia Optima is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Lexus IS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Lexus IS would be higher. At 2,359 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Kia Optima (175 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 2002 Lexus IS. (153 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 2002 Lexus IS.
Because 2002 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 2002 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, 2009 Kia Optima (229 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Lexus IS. (195 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2009 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Lexus IS.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Kia Optima | 2002 Lexus IS | |
Make | Kia | Lexus |
Model | Optima | IS |
Year Released | 2009 | 2002 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2359 cc | 1986 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 175 HP | 153 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
Torque | 229 Nm | 195 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.1:1 | 10.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
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 |