2006 Lexus IS vs. 2003 Mazda 2
To start off, 2006 Lexus IS is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mazda 2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mazda 2 would be higher. At 1,988 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Lexus IS (153 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 2003 Mazda 2. (79 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda 2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Lexus IS weights approximately 455 kg more than 2003 Mazda 2. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 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 2006 Lexus IS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Mazda 2, 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, 2006 Lexus IS (195 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 67 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda 2. (128 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2006 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda 2.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Lexus IS | 2003 Mazda 2 | |
| Make | Lexus | Mazda |
| Model | IS | 2 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1988 cc | 1388 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 195 Nm | 128 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75.1 mm | 76 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1505 kg | 1050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 3930 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1550 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2500 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 50 L |
