2008 Mazda CX-7 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 CX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Mazda CX-7 would be higher. At 2,260 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mazda CX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda CX-7 (244 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 94 more horse power than 2012 Lexus IS. (150 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda CX-7 should accelerate faster than 2012 Lexus IS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Lexus IS weights approximately 365 kg more than 2008 Mazda CX-7.
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 CX-7, 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 Mazda CX-7 (351 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Lexus IS. (340 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda CX-7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Lexus IS.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda CX-7 | 2012 Lexus IS | |
| Make | Mazda | Lexus |
| Model | CX-7 | IS |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2260 cc | 2231 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 244 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 351 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 188 km/hour | 204 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1180 kg | 1545 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4585 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1801 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1650 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2731 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 69 L | 65 L |
