2007 Lexus IS vs. 1989 Mazda RX-7
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 RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Mazda RX-7 would be higher. At 2,614 cc, 1989 Mazda RX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Lexus IS (205 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 1989 Mazda RX-7. (200 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 1989 Mazda RX-7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Lexus IS weights approximately 281 kg more than 1989 Mazda RX-7. 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, 1989 Mazda RX-7 (264 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Lexus IS. (252 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1989 Mazda RX-7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Lexus IS. 2007 Lexus IS has automatic transmission and 1989 Mazda RX-7 has manual transmission. 1989 Mazda RX-7 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 Lexus IS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Lexus IS | 1989 Mazda RX-7 | |
| Make | Lexus | Mazda |
| Model | IS | RX-7 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2491 cc | 2614 cc |
| Engine Type | V | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 205 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 252 Nm | 264 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Top Speed | 225 km/hour | 238 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1566 kg | 1285 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 4340 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2430 mm |
