2009 Lexus IS vs. 2003 Mazda 2
To start off, 2009 Lexus IS is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mazda 2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mazda 2 would be higher. At 2,231 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Lexus IS (175 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 96 more horse power than 2003 Mazda 2. (79 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda 2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Lexus IS weights approximately 610 kg more than 2003 Mazda 2. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 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 2009 Lexus IS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Mazda 2, 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, 2009 Lexus IS (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 272 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda 2. (128 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda 2.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Lexus IS | 2003 Mazda 2 | |
| Make | Lexus | Mazda |
| Model | IS | 2 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2231 cc | 1388 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 128 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 76 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 96 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1660 kg | 1050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 3930 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1550 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2500 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 50 L |
