1998 Mazda 323 vs. 1999 Lexus IS
To start off, 1999 Lexus IS is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 1,988 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Lexus IS (153 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (114 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Lexus IS weights approximately 295 kg more than 1998 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 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 1999 Lexus IS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 1999 Lexus IS (195 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (162 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1999 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mazda 323 | 1999 Lexus IS | |
| Make | Mazda | Lexus |
| Model | 323 | IS |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1839 cc | 1988 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 162 Nm | 195 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1105 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
