2007 Lexus IS vs. 1989 Mazda 323
To start off, 2007 Lexus IS is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Lexus IS (211 HP) has 137 more horse power than 1989 Mazda 323. (74 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 1989 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Lexus IS weights approximately 590 kg more than 1989 Mazda 323. 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, 2007 Lexus IS (288 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 184 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 323. (104 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2007 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Lexus IS | 1989 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Lexus | Mazda |
| Model | IS | 323 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 1324 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 211 HP | 74 HP |
| Torque | 288 Nm | 104 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 71 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.2 seconds | 12.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1575 kg | 985 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 50 L |
