2004 Lexus IS vs. 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2004 Lexus IS is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 1,988 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Lexus IS (153 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 43 more horse power than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (110 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Lexus IS weights approximately 362 kg more than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 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, 2004 Lexus IS (195 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (134 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2004 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Lexus IS | 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Lexus | Mazda |
| Model | IS | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1988 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 110 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 195 Nm | 134 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1400 kg | 1038 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 3980 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2270 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 50 L |
