2008 Lexus IS vs. 1996 Mazda Levante
To start off, 2008 Lexus IS is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mazda Levante. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mazda Levante would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Mazda Levante is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Lexus IS (270 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 132 more horse power than 1996 Mazda Levante. (138 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 1996 Mazda Levante. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Lexus IS weights approximately 195 kg more than 1996 Mazda Levante. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Mazda Levante is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 Lexus IS. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Mazda Levante will offer significantly more control. 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, 2008 Lexus IS (195 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mazda Levante. (190 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mazda Levante. 1996 Mazda Levante has automatic transmission and 2008 Lexus IS has manual transmission. 2008 Lexus IS will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Mazda Levante will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Lexus IS | 1996 Mazda Levante | |
| Make | Lexus | Mazda |
| Model | IS | Levante |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1988 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 270 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 195 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1455 kg | 1260 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5160 mm | 3820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1700 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2230 mm |
