2002 Lexus SC vs. 2007 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2007 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Lexus SC. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Lexus SC would be higher. At 4,298 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Lexus SC is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Lexus SC (312 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 84 more horse power than 2007 Mazda RX-8. (228 HP @ 8200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Lexus SC should accelerate faster than 2007 Mazda RX-8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Lexus SC weights approximately 390 kg more than 2007 Mazda RX-8. 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, 2002 Lexus SC (447 Nm) has 236 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Mazda RX-8. (211 Nm). This means 2002 Lexus SC will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Mazda RX-8. 2002 Lexus SC has automatic transmission and 2007 Mazda RX-8 has manual transmission. 2007 Mazda RX-8 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Lexus SC will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Lexus SC | 2007 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Lexus | Mazda |
| Model | SC | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4298 cc | 1307 cc |
| Engine Type | V | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 312 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 8200 RPM |
| Torque | 447 Nm | 211 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 91.4 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.6 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 235 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1815 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2710 mm |
