1994 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2011 Lexus IS
To start off, 2011 Lexus IS is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1994 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1994 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 2,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Lexus IS (204 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 88 more horse power than 1994 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (116 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 1994 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Lexus IS weights approximately 787 kg more than 1994 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, 2011 Lexus IS (251 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 121 more torque (in Nm) than 1994 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (130 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2011 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1994 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
1994 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2011 Lexus IS | |
Make | Mazda | Lexus |
Model | MX-5 Miata | IS |
Year Released | 1994 | 2011 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1598 cc | 2500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 116 HP | 204 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6400 RPM |
Torque | 130 Nm | 251 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 955 kg | 1742 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4633 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1801 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1415 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2731 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 65 L |