2008 Lexus IS vs. 1996 Toyota MR2
To start off, 2008 Lexus IS is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Toyota MR2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Toyota MR2 would be higher. At 2,997 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Lexus IS (216 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 142 more horse power than 1996 Toyota MR2. (74 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 1996 Toyota MR2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Toyota MR2 weights approximately 133 kg more than 2008 Lexus IS.
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, 2008 Lexus IS (288 Nm) has 157 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Toyota MR2. (131 Nm). This means 2008 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Toyota MR2. 2008 Lexus IS has automatic transmission and 1996 Toyota MR2 has manual transmission. 1996 Toyota MR2 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Lexus IS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Lexus IS | 1996 Toyota MR2 | |
| Make | Lexus | Toyota |
| Model | IS | MR2 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2997 cc | 1988 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 216 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 288 Nm | 131 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1482 kg | 1615 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 75 L |
