2009 Kia Optima vs. 2002 Lexus LX
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 LX. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Lexus LX would be higher. At 4,664 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Lexus LX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Lexus LX (232 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 2009 Kia Optima. (173 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Lexus LX should accelerate faster than 2009 Kia Optima.
Because 2002 Lexus LX is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 Kia Optima. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Lexus LX will offer significantly more control. 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, 2002 Lexus LX (434 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 265 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Kia Optima. (169 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2002 Lexus LX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Kia Optima. 2002 Lexus LX 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. 2002 Lexus LX will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Kia Optima | 2002 Lexus LX | |
| Make | Kia | Lexus |
| Model | Optima | LX |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2399 cc | 4664 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 169 Nm | 434 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1950 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1870 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 66 L |
