2002 Lexus IS vs. 2006 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2006 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Lexus IS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Lexus IS would be higher. At 1,986 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 79 more horse power than 2002 Lexus IS. (153 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2002 Lexus IS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Lexus IS weights approximately 271 kg more than 2006 Mazda RX-8.
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, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Lexus IS. (195 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Lexus IS.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Lexus IS | 2006 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Lexus | Mazda |
| Model | IS | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1986 cc | 1311 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 8500 RPM |
| Torque | 195 Nm | 216 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1400 kg | 1129 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 60 L |
