1989 Lexus LS vs. 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Lexus LS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Lexus LS would be higher. At 3,969 cc (8 cylinders), 1989 Lexus LS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Lexus LS (242 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (178 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Lexus LS should accelerate faster than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Lexus LS weights approximately 671 kg more than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1989 Lexus LS (350 Nm) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (220 Nm). This means 1989 Lexus LS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Lexus LS | 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Lexus | Mazda |
| Model | LS | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3969 cc | 1835 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 242 HP | 178 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1818 kg | 1147 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2820 mm | 2270 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 48 L |
