2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata 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 MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 2,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Lexus IS (204 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (166 HP @ 6700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Lexus IS weights approximately 238 kg more than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 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, 2012 Lexus IS (251 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2012 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2012 Lexus IS | |
Make | Mazda | Lexus |
Model | MX-5 Miata | IS |
Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1999 cc | 2500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 166 HP | 204 HP |
Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 6400 RPM |
Torque | 190 Nm | 251 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1329 kg | 1567 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4585 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1801 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2731 mm |
Fuel Consumption Highway | 8.9 L/100km | 8.4 L/100km |
Fuel Consumption City | 10.8 L/100km | 12.4 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 65 L |