2008 Mazda 6 vs. 2012 Lexus IS
To start off, 2012 Lexus IS is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Mazda 6. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Mazda 6 would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Lexus IS (306 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 158 more horse power than 2008 Mazda 6. (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 2008 Mazda 6. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Lexus IS weights approximately 244 kg more than 2008 Mazda 6. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 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 2012 Lexus IS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 6, 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, 2012 Lexus IS (375 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 191 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda 6. (184 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2012 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda 6. 2012 Lexus IS has automatic transmission and 2008 Mazda 6 has manual transmission. 2008 Mazda 6 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Lexus IS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda 6 | 2012 Lexus IS | |
| Make | Mazda | Lexus |
| Model | 6 | IS |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 306 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 184 Nm | 375 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1356 kg | 1600 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4585 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1440 mm | 1801 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2731 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 65 L |
