1985 Mazda 323 vs. 2012 Lexus IS
To start off, 2012 Lexus IS is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 2,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Lexus IS (204 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 101 more horse power than 1985 Mazda 323. (103 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 1985 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Lexus IS weights approximately 802 kg more than 1985 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 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 2012 Lexus IS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 Mazda 323, 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, 2012 Lexus IS (251 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 114 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mazda 323. (137 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2012 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Mazda 323 | 2012 Lexus IS | |
| Make | Mazda | Lexus |
| Model | 323 | IS |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 103 HP | 204 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 137 Nm | 251 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 940 kg | 1742 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4633 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1801 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1415 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2731 mm |
