2009 Kia Spectra vs. 2008 Lexus IS
To start off, 2009 Kia Spectra is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Lexus IS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Lexus IS would be higher. At 2,997 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Lexus IS (216 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 78 more horse power than 2009 Kia Spectra. (138 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 2009 Kia Spectra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Kia Spectra weights approximately 33 kg more than 2008 Lexus IS.
Because 2008 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 2008 Lexus IS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Kia Spectra, 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, 2008 Lexus IS (288 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 104 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Kia Spectra. (184 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2008 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Kia Spectra. 2008 Lexus IS has automatic transmission and 2009 Kia Spectra has manual transmission. 2009 Kia Spectra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Lexus IS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Kia Spectra | 2008 Lexus IS | |
| Make | Kia | Lexus |
| Model | Spectra | IS |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1975 cc | 2997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 216 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 184 Nm | 288 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1515 kg | 1482 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.2 L/100km | 10.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 70 L |
