2008 Lexus IS vs. 2007 Mazda 5
To start off, 2008 Lexus IS is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2007 Mazda 5. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2007 Mazda 5 would be higher. At 2,260 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Mazda 5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mazda 5 (154 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 2008 Lexus IS. (153 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mazda 5 should accelerate faster than 2008 Lexus IS.
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, 2007 Mazda 5, 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, 2007 Mazda 5 (201 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Lexus IS. (195 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2007 Mazda 5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Lexus IS. 2007 Mazda 5 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. 2007 Mazda 5 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Lexus IS | 2007 Mazda 5 | |
| Make | Lexus | Mazda |
| Model | IS | 5 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1988 cc | 2260 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 154 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 195 Nm | 201 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 6 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4620 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1640 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.9 L/100km | 10.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 60 L |
