2008 Lexus IS vs. 2003 Mazda Roadster
To start off, 2008 Lexus IS is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mazda Roadster. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mazda Roadster would be higher. At 1,986 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Lexus IS (153 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 2003 Mazda Roadster. (118 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda Roadster. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Lexus IS weights approximately 425 kg more than 2003 Mazda Roadster. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 (195 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda Roadster. (140 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2008 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda Roadster.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Lexus IS | 2003 Mazda Roadster | |
| Make | Lexus | Mazda |
| Model | IS | Roadster |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1986 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 195 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1455 kg | 1030 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2270 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 48 L |
