2008 Lexus IS vs. 2002 Mazda Laputa

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 Laputa. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Mazda Laputa 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 (211 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 159 more horse power than 2002 Mazda Laputa. (52 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 2002 Mazda Laputa. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Lexus IS weights approximately 865 kg more than 2002 Mazda Laputa. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2008 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 2008 Lexus IS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Mazda Laputa, 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, 2008 Lexus IS (288 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 225 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mazda Laputa. (63 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mazda Laputa. 2008 Lexus IS has automatic transmission and 2002 Mazda Laputa has manual transmission. 2002 Mazda Laputa 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 2002 Mazda Laputa
Make Lexus Mazda
Model IS Laputa
Year Released 2008 2002
Body Type Station Wagon Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2997 cc 657 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 3 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 211 HP 52 HP
Engine RPM 5800 RPM 6500 RPM
Torque 288 Nm 63 Nm
Torque RPM 3800 RPM 3500 RPM
Engine Bore Size 86 mm 68 mm
Engine Stroke Size 86 mm 60.4 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 11.0:1 10.5:1
Fuel Type Gasoline - Premium Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1615 kg 750 kg
Vehicle Length 4510 mm 3400 mm
Vehicle Width 1730 mm 1480 mm
Vehicle Height 1440 mm 1550 mm
Wheelbase Size 2680 mm 2370 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 70 L 30 L