2007 Lexus IS vs. 2008 Mazda 3
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2007 Lexus IS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2007 Lexus IS 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 @ 5800 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 2008 Mazda 3. (149 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 2008 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Lexus IS weights approximately 340 kg more than 2008 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2007 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 2007 Lexus IS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 3, 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, 2007 Lexus IS (288 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 101 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda 3. (187 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2007 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda 3. 2007 Lexus IS has automatic transmission and 2008 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2008 Mazda 3 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 | 2008 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Lexus | Mazda |
| Model | IS | 3 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 211 HP | 149 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 288 Nm | 187 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 230 km/hour | 208 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.2 seconds | 9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1575 kg | 1235 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.8 L/100km | 7.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
