2007 Lexus IS vs. 2012 Mazda CX-7
To start off, 2012 Mazda CX-7 is newer by 5 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 2,300 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mazda CX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mazda CX-7 (244 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 69 more horse power than 2007 Lexus IS. (175 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda CX-7 should accelerate faster than 2007 Lexus IS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Lexus IS weights approximately 12 kg more than 2012 Mazda CX-7.
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, 2012 Mazda CX-7, 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 (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 51 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda CX-7. (349 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2007 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda CX-7. 2012 Mazda CX-7 has automatic transmission and 2007 Lexus IS has manual transmission. 2007 Lexus IS will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mazda CX-7 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Lexus IS | 2012 Mazda CX-7 | |
| Make | Lexus | Mazda |
| Model | IS | CX-7 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2231 cc | 2300 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 244 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 349 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1730 kg | 1718 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 4681 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1872 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1646 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2751 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 69 L |
