2003 Lexus IS vs. 1978 Mazda 818
To start off, 2003 Lexus IS is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mazda 818. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mazda 818 would be higher. At 1,988 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Lexus IS (153 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 85 more horse power than 1978 Mazda 818. (68 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda 818. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Lexus IS weights approximately 400 kg more than 1978 Mazda 818. 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, 2003 Lexus IS (196 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 104 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda 818. (92 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda 818.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Lexus IS | 1978 Mazda 818 | |
| Make | Lexus | Mazda |
| Model | IS | 818 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1988 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 68 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 196 Nm | 92 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1400 kg | 1000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2320 mm |
