1992 Mazda 323 vs. 2001 Lexus IS
To start off, 2001 Lexus IS is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1992 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1992 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 1,988 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Lexus IS (201 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 127 more horse power than 1992 Mazda 323. (74 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 1992 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Lexus IS weights approximately 470 kg more than 1992 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 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 2001 Lexus IS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1992 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, 2001 Lexus IS (247 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 143 more torque (in Nm) than 1992 Mazda 323. (104 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2001 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1992 Mazda 323. 2001 Lexus IS has automatic transmission and 1992 Mazda 323 has manual transmission. 1992 Mazda 323 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Lexus IS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1992 Mazda 323 | 2001 Lexus IS | |
| Make | Mazda | Lexus |
| Model | 323 | IS |
| Year Released | 1992 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1324 cc | 1988 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 104 Nm | 247 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4040 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 70 L |
