2002 Mazda 6 vs. 2004 Lexus IS
To start off, 2004 Lexus IS is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Mazda 6. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Mazda 6 would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Mazda 6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Lexus IS (153 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 2002 Mazda 6. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 2002 Mazda 6. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mazda 6 weights approximately 25 kg more than 2004 Lexus IS.
Because 2004 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 2004 Lexus IS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Mazda 6, 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, 2004 Lexus IS (195 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mazda 6. (181 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2004 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mazda 6. 2004 Lexus IS has automatic transmission and 2002 Mazda 6 has manual transmission. 2002 Mazda 6 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Lexus IS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mazda 6 | 2004 Lexus IS | |
| Make | Mazda | Lexus |
| Model | 6 | IS |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 1988 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 181 Nm | 195 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1425 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 70 L |
