2008 Lexus IS vs. 2002 Mazda 323
To start off, 2008 Lexus IS is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 2,501 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Lexus IS (204 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 107 more horse power than 2002 Mazda 323. (97 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 2002 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Lexus IS weights approximately 580 kg more than 2002 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Lexus IS is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2002 Mazda 323. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Lexus IS 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 (251 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 106 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mazda 323. (145 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2008 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Lexus IS | 2002 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Lexus | Mazda |
| Model | IS | 323 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2501 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 204 HP | 97 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 251 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 3700 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1740 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 55 L |
