2008 Lexus IS vs. 2012 Mazda 5
To start off, 2012 Mazda 5 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Lexus IS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Lexus IS would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mazda 5 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mazda 5 weights approximately 30 kg more 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, 2012 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, 2008 Lexus IS (195 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 4 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda 5. (191 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2008 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda 5. 2008 Lexus IS has automatic transmission and 2012 Mazda 5 has manual transmission. 2012 Mazda 5 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 | 2012 Mazda 5 | |
| Make | Lexus | Mazda |
| Model | IS | 5 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1988 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 148 HP |
| Torque | 195 Nm | 191 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 215 km/hour | 193 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.5 seconds | 11 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1455 kg | 1485 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4585 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1615 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2751 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 60 L |
