2009 Lexus IS vs. 2012 Kia Optima
To start off, 2012 Kia Optima is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 Lexus IS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 Lexus IS would be higher. At 4,969 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Lexus IS (416 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 216 more horse power than 2012 Kia Optima. (200 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 2012 Kia Optima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Lexus IS weights approximately 238 kg more than 2012 Kia Optima. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 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 2009 Lexus IS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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 Lexus IS (503 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 251 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Kia Optima. (252 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2009 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Kia Optima.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Lexus IS | 2012 Kia Optima | |
Make | Lexus | Kia |
Model | IS | Optima |
Year Released | 2009 | 2012 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4969 cc | 2400 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 416 HP | 200 HP |
Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 6300 RPM |
Torque | 503 Nm | 252 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5200 RPM | 4250 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1700 kg | 1462 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4844 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1831 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1455 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2797 mm |
Fuel Consumption Highway | 10.2 L/100km | 6.9 L/100km |
Fuel Consumption City | 14.7 L/100km | 9.8 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 70 L |