1987 Mazda 626 vs. 2012 Lexus IS
To start off, 2012 Lexus IS is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Mazda 626. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Mazda 626 would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Lexus IS (306 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 160 more horse power than 1987 Mazda 626. (146 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 1987 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Lexus IS weights approximately 440 kg more than 1987 Mazda 626. 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, 1987 Mazda 626, 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 (375 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 193 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Mazda 626. (182 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Mazda 626. 2012 Lexus IS has automatic transmission and 1987 Mazda 626 has manual transmission. 1987 Mazda 626 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Lexus IS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1987 Mazda 626 | 2012 Lexus IS | |
Make | Mazda | Lexus |
Model | 626 | IS |
Year Released | 1987 | 2012 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1998 cc | 3500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 146 HP | 306 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6400 RPM |
Torque | 182 Nm | 375 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1320 kg | 1760 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4636 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1801 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1415 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2731 mm |