1999 Lexus IS vs. 2003 Mazda 2
To start off, 2003 Mazda 2 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Lexus IS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Lexus IS 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 79 more horse power than 2003 Mazda 2. (74 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda 2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Lexus IS weights approximately 350 kg more than 2003 Mazda 2. 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, 2003 Mazda 2, 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 85 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda 2. (110 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1999 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda 2.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Lexus IS | 2003 Mazda 2 | |
| Make | Lexus | Mazda |
| Model | IS | 2 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1988 cc | 1241 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 195 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75 mm | 71.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1400 kg | 1050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 3930 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1550 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2500 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 45 L |
