RX8 OR Lexus IS300
#1
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RX8 OR Lexus IS300
Hello,
What would you choose a rx8 or a is300 if you were in a market for a automatic tranmission, luxury and the sporty look, and power and it has to be smooth and reliable. I heard that the RX8 is only a 1.3 liter and when you compare to the is300 is a 3.0 liter. So the lexus should be quicker right? Thanks for your help
What would you choose a rx8 or a is300 if you were in a market for a automatic tranmission, luxury and the sporty look, and power and it has to be smooth and reliable. I heard that the RX8 is only a 1.3 liter and when you compare to the is300 is a 3.0 liter. So the lexus should be quicker right? Thanks for your help
#2
You need to do some homework ![Smilie](https://www.rx8club.com/images/smilies/smile.gif)
The RX-8 is a rotary engine, the Lexus is a piston engine. The RX-8 should be faster, handle better, and be just as reliable.
Prices I believe, are also similar. I'd give you a whole spiel but I got class
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The RX-8 is a rotary engine, the Lexus is a piston engine. The RX-8 should be faster, handle better, and be just as reliable.
Prices I believe, are also similar. I'd give you a whole spiel but I got class
![Smilie](https://www.rx8club.com/images/smilies/smile.gif)
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![Red face](https://www.rx8club.com/images/icons/icon11.gif)
That depends on what kind of car you want. As a matter of fact, I was just a my Lexus dealer yesterday looking at their stock of IS300s.
The question you need to ask yourself is, "Do you want a sports car that can seat four, or do you want a car that pretends to be sporty?" The RX-8 can outgun and out perform the IS is every aspect (Speaking of the 250 hp/6spd. of course, the lesser RX isn't much of a thought to me.) The Lexus was designed to get younger buyers into the granddaddy showrooms of Lexus, by putting it up against the BMW 3 series, Audi's A4, etc., Lexus officials told us that soooo many times. As I looked at the IS300, I kept saying to myself that I want a car that is origional, the IS isn't. To me it's still a little kid trying to compete with a bunch of men. It has still missed it's mark on BMW and Audi. But......the RX8 has has hit the Bimmer and Audi square in the A#@. Don't get me wrong I love the Bimmer 3 series, just that where I live, they are more common than rain water. But even though, I would take one of them over a Lexus IS. The Lexus it too trendy for my tastes, it's design is liveable, but not loveable, the interior gauges are a joke. I'll never forget talking to a Lexus representative when the car was first introduced and he said, " The IS300's gauges are race-inspired." C'mon you tell me what kind of racing cars gauges look like that. They were inspired from my Guess chronograph.
The RX8 is a well thought out and packaged vehicle. It had to be, or Mazda would sink into oblivion if it failed. When I first learned of the RX coming back, I was excited, but when I learned that it would have four doors, I was pissed, but as the car evolved I understood Mazda's thinking. It's a new way of looking at what a sports car is or what we think it should be. The Lexus is an OK car, considering it's first time out. I think when it's redesigned for 2004/05, Lexus would have made the car grown up. After all, you have to be original and not be so much of a copy cat. Mazda has too much talent to copy anyone.
The question you need to ask yourself is, "Do you want a sports car that can seat four, or do you want a car that pretends to be sporty?" The RX-8 can outgun and out perform the IS is every aspect (Speaking of the 250 hp/6spd. of course, the lesser RX isn't much of a thought to me.) The Lexus was designed to get younger buyers into the granddaddy showrooms of Lexus, by putting it up against the BMW 3 series, Audi's A4, etc., Lexus officials told us that soooo many times. As I looked at the IS300, I kept saying to myself that I want a car that is origional, the IS isn't. To me it's still a little kid trying to compete with a bunch of men. It has still missed it's mark on BMW and Audi. But......the RX8 has has hit the Bimmer and Audi square in the A#@. Don't get me wrong I love the Bimmer 3 series, just that where I live, they are more common than rain water. But even though, I would take one of them over a Lexus IS. The Lexus it too trendy for my tastes, it's design is liveable, but not loveable, the interior gauges are a joke. I'll never forget talking to a Lexus representative when the car was first introduced and he said, " The IS300's gauges are race-inspired." C'mon you tell me what kind of racing cars gauges look like that. They were inspired from my Guess chronograph.
The RX8 is a well thought out and packaged vehicle. It had to be, or Mazda would sink into oblivion if it failed. When I first learned of the RX coming back, I was excited, but when I learned that it would have four doors, I was pissed, but as the car evolved I understood Mazda's thinking. It's a new way of looking at what a sports car is or what we think it should be. The Lexus is an OK car, considering it's first time out. I think when it's redesigned for 2004/05, Lexus would have made the car grown up. After all, you have to be original and not be so much of a copy cat. Mazda has too much talent to copy anyone.
Last edited by 1.3 liter; 03-03-2003 at 03:12 PM.
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This is an interesting question. If you asked me to compare a manual RX-8 against any kind of IS300 there is no question that the RX-8 is way better, but the auto RX-8 might make a valid comparison to an auto IS300 (same price as well - can get IS300 at invoice similar to RX-8 at MSRP).
I have an auto IS300 and it's a good car - not a single problem in 42k miles, fast enough, great steering feel and reasonably comfortable. I would expect the RX-8 auto to be about as quick in straight line acceleration (0-60 in 7.3 or so) and faster around a track (lighter and better balanced). To me the RX-8 has much better styling (and that's saying something as I prefer the IS300 inside and out to a BMW), more interior space for 4 adults, and an incredibly smooth high-revving engine (the rotary should be even better than my I-6).
The only worries I have about the RX-8 is the quality of materials (I am not one of the lucky ones that have touched the inside of an RX-8 yet) and the reliability (I am used to perfection) and Mazda service (Lexus has - and charges for - exceptional service).
I have an auto IS300 and it's a good car - not a single problem in 42k miles, fast enough, great steering feel and reasonably comfortable. I would expect the RX-8 auto to be about as quick in straight line acceleration (0-60 in 7.3 or so) and faster around a track (lighter and better balanced). To me the RX-8 has much better styling (and that's saying something as I prefer the IS300 inside and out to a BMW), more interior space for 4 adults, and an incredibly smooth high-revving engine (the rotary should be even better than my I-6).
The only worries I have about the RX-8 is the quality of materials (I am not one of the lucky ones that have touched the inside of an RX-8 yet) and the reliability (I am used to perfection) and Mazda service (Lexus has - and charges for - exceptional service).
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I was very close to getting an Intensa Blue Pearl IS300 2002 5 Speed, but in Canada, you have to get the fully loaded model (Dealers are reluctant to order a basic IS300 with cloth seats). My budget was around the 37,000-40,000 range, and for a top model IS300 I would be looking at around 48,000. Dont get me wrong, its a very nice car and the inline-6 5 speed shifting rocks, but bang for the buck wise I gotta go with the RX-8. Im not really a big fan of luxury add ons, just performance!
#9
ive been driving a IS for the last year and it is a grrreat car. It is really fun and the performance is great too. Its is my brohters car so I have to get a new car(Rx 8 or Z). All I have to say is if i had a IS already i wouldnt buy a rx 8. But if I had to choose for the first time i would probably get a 8
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The IS is a pretty good car... my brother has one and it rides very well and handles good... it might not compare to the 330i, but for considerably less, the IS holds its own... i really love the rx8, so i am biased and would say that the auto 8 would outperform the IS... the one drawback to the IS is that it already looks dated and if you were on the fence for the IS or the 8, wait a year or 2 for the new one... i fyou need a car this year, i would take the 8 hands down.
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I agree that Lexus makes a superb 5-speed auto (perfect kick-downs, smooth changes when you want to relax). Note the e-shift (steering wheel butons) is a gimmick that most people won't use after the novelty wears off (i.e. after 1-3 months). I forgot to mention the killer standard sound system in the IS300 as a major plus.
I don't know how good the 4-speed in the RX-8 will be, and personally I would test-drive the manual even if I wanted an auto, just to see what a near-perfect manual transmission felt like. Perhaps it will change your mind...
I don't know how good the 4-speed in the RX-8 will be, and personally I would test-drive the manual even if I wanted an auto, just to see what a near-perfect manual transmission felt like. Perhaps it will change your mind...
Last edited by pelucidor; 03-04-2003 at 11:13 AM.
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Seems to me like the Mazda6 is a better comparison car to the IS300 than the RX-8.
The engines are very similar, the 6 has slightly more power and slightly better gas mileage. The 6 is a little bigger, but looking at cars.com, they seem to be very comparable. Except, of course, a fully loaded Mazda6 costs $5K less than the base IS300.
If I drove an automatic, I would definitely choose the Mazda6 over the RX-8.
The engines are very similar, the 6 has slightly more power and slightly better gas mileage. The 6 is a little bigger, but looking at cars.com, they seem to be very comparable. Except, of course, a fully loaded Mazda6 costs $5K less than the base IS300.
If I drove an automatic, I would definitely choose the Mazda6 over the RX-8.
#14
Two words ---- Powerhouse Racing. I know that you said nothing about the tunability of either of these two cars, so this may mean absolutely nothing to you, but the IS can be built like crazy. It makes sense considering the DNA it shares with the last gen Supra. I know nothing about what the potential of the 8 will be, but there are some CRAZY IS's running around.....
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The only worries I have about the RX-8 is the quality of materials (I am not one of the lucky ones that have touched the inside of an RX-8 yet)
We have to remember to take articles from C&D , Automobile, etc. for what they're worth. One of my biggest concerns is the interior materials (I ordered cloth seats). We have no idea what they will be like. That's why it is so important to have a refundable deposit.
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Originally posted by jimbotomy
Seems to me like the Mazda6 is a better comparison car to the IS300 than the RX-8.
The engines are very similar, the 6 has slightly more power and slightly better gas mileage. The 6 is a little bigger, but looking at cars.com, they seem to be very comparable. Except, of course, a fully loaded Mazda6 costs $5K less than the base IS300.
If I drove an automatic, I would definitely choose the Mazda6 over the RX-8.
Seems to me like the Mazda6 is a better comparison car to the IS300 than the RX-8.
The engines are very similar, the 6 has slightly more power and slightly better gas mileage. The 6 is a little bigger, but looking at cars.com, they seem to be very comparable. Except, of course, a fully loaded Mazda6 costs $5K less than the base IS300.
If I drove an automatic, I would definitely choose the Mazda6 over the RX-8.
#17
Neither!
If you are looking for automatic, then the RX-8 isn't for you. (Look at the torque figure and imagine pairing that up with an automatic tranny) The IS300 is a nice car but it's time is over and done with. I would recommend an Accord sedan/coupe over the IS300 at this point unless you are in love with the IS300 style.
If you are looking for automatic, then the RX-8 isn't for you. (Look at the torque figure and imagine pairing that up with an automatic tranny) The IS300 is a nice car but it's time is over and done with. I would recommend an Accord sedan/coupe over the IS300 at this point unless you are in love with the IS300 style.
#18
FWD vs RWD?
I don't care if the car does 0-60 in half an hour I wouldn't go back to a FWD car over a RWD car.
As per the original question.. I'd take the Lexus auto over the RX-8 auto. Just my $.02. I don't know why in the world anybody would take an Accord over either though.
Torque is not necessary to have fun. The Miata is a perfect example.
I don't care if the car does 0-60 in half an hour I wouldn't go back to a FWD car over a RWD car.
As per the original question.. I'd take the Lexus auto over the RX-8 auto. Just my $.02. I don't know why in the world anybody would take an Accord over either though.
Torque is not necessary to have fun. The Miata is a perfect example.
#20
Originally posted by Skyline Maniac
This guy is thinking about getting an AUTOMATIC RX-8, I seriously doubt FWD/RWD would make too much difference in THIS case.
This guy is thinking about getting an AUTOMATIC RX-8, I seriously doubt FWD/RWD would make too much difference in THIS case.
Most people that are purchasing the Mazda RX-8, Miata, Protege, do so to get maximum 'smile per mile.' For some people the issue of power in a straight line arises, but this discounts the fact the Miata has been for the last 7 or 8 years, RATED the 'most fun car to drive' by more than a few big publications.
Power does not equal fun, at least not to a lot of people (and moreso percentage wise on a Mazda forum hehe). RWD driving dynamics and FWD driving dynamics are hugely different and as a result you'll definately get more 'smile per mile' with a RWD than FWD car.
Just because a car is automatic, and thus slower, doesn't mean it will be less fun. Being that you own a G35 I don't think you know where the Mazda community's love lies
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#21
I understand what you are saying regarding FWD and RWD, but I still think someone who wants an automatic RX-8 probably won't benefit from the RWD nature of the car. A high peaking engine like the renesis should be coupled with manual tranny or an very efficient CVT. Doesn't 'fun to drive' usually hints 'manual transmission'? I can see an auto on a 350Z because of the horrific torque, but RX8? I'd definitly go with manual~
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I have a hard time answering this question for one ear piercing reason:
1. HE WANTS AN AUTOMATIC!!!
I personally think he shouldn't get either of the cars disccussed. I would have to agree with SkylineManiac on this one.
1. HE WANTS AN AUTOMATIC!!!
I personally think he shouldn't get either of the cars disccussed. I would have to agree with SkylineManiac on this one.
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The very first time I sat in an IS300 (months before it was released in June 2000) was at a Lexus driving event. There were two autocross tracks - one where you got to ride shotgun with professional drivers, and the other where you could drive yourself (and check out competing cars - BMW 328i auto and A4 2.8 quattro auto)
My driver was incredible, and a real racing driver (off to compete in Malaysia the following week). Within 10 secs I realized I would never own another FWD car again - the things he made it do (with an automatic - all IS300s were autos in the first year) put a HUGE smile on my face. The best FWD cars I had owned up to that point (Prelude and A4, both manuals) were nothing in fun factor terms.
I went with that same driver 4 more times that day (queued for 30 mins each time) and did about 15 laps myself in the IS and BMW 328 and Audi A4 trying to emulate what he could do (maybe got to 5% according to my wife who rode with me on my last attempt). Other events I attended (Edmunds, BMW, Cadillac, Mercedes etc) also demonstrated that any RWD car is a lot more fun than a FWD on a track whether its auto or not.
Just writing this reminds me of how much fun I had with the Lexus the first two years - sadly I've hit the mileage limit on the lease so its been sitting at home for my wife to use for short trips during the last 9 months. The steering is pin-sharp and perfectly weighted, the brakes are fantastic, it's easy to slide the back when you turn traction off, the car is perfectly sized (but a little heavy), the interior quality is very good (get the fake suede ecsaine seats for grip, not the full leather) and the equipment levels are very good. Reliability and service will never be a question. Leases start at $399 a month for 36 months/36k miles most of the time. The only downsides are poor fuel economy (around 20mpg), the dash is not to everyones taste (I love it) and how common they are becoming in certain areas (about 70,000 in the USA so far, but RX will eventually catch up if it sells 30,000 per year as intended).
What I am saying is get the IS300 auto (a great 5-speed auto) instead of the RX-8 auto (at best a passable 4-speed auto from what I've read), or consider the RX-8 manual to top them both. And on a personal note, when I get my RX-8 I will definitely take up autocrossing (wife has given approval) - just hope I am not too old to learn how to drive 'properly'.
My driver was incredible, and a real racing driver (off to compete in Malaysia the following week). Within 10 secs I realized I would never own another FWD car again - the things he made it do (with an automatic - all IS300s were autos in the first year) put a HUGE smile on my face. The best FWD cars I had owned up to that point (Prelude and A4, both manuals) were nothing in fun factor terms.
I went with that same driver 4 more times that day (queued for 30 mins each time) and did about 15 laps myself in the IS and BMW 328 and Audi A4 trying to emulate what he could do (maybe got to 5% according to my wife who rode with me on my last attempt). Other events I attended (Edmunds, BMW, Cadillac, Mercedes etc) also demonstrated that any RWD car is a lot more fun than a FWD on a track whether its auto or not.
Just writing this reminds me of how much fun I had with the Lexus the first two years - sadly I've hit the mileage limit on the lease so its been sitting at home for my wife to use for short trips during the last 9 months. The steering is pin-sharp and perfectly weighted, the brakes are fantastic, it's easy to slide the back when you turn traction off, the car is perfectly sized (but a little heavy), the interior quality is very good (get the fake suede ecsaine seats for grip, not the full leather) and the equipment levels are very good. Reliability and service will never be a question. Leases start at $399 a month for 36 months/36k miles most of the time. The only downsides are poor fuel economy (around 20mpg), the dash is not to everyones taste (I love it) and how common they are becoming in certain areas (about 70,000 in the USA so far, but RX will eventually catch up if it sells 30,000 per year as intended).
What I am saying is get the IS300 auto (a great 5-speed auto) instead of the RX-8 auto (at best a passable 4-speed auto from what I've read), or consider the RX-8 manual to top them both. And on a personal note, when I get my RX-8 I will definitely take up autocrossing (wife has given approval) - just hope I am not too old to learn how to drive 'properly'.
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Originally posted by 1.3 liter
That depends on what kind of car you want. As a matter of fact, I was just a my Lexus dealer yesterday looking at their stock of IS300s.
The question you need to ask yourself is, "Do you want a sports car that can seat four, or do you want a car that pretends to be sporty?" The RX-8 can outgun and out perform the IS is every aspect (Speaking of the 250 hp/6spd. of course, the lesser RX isn't much of a thought to me.) The Lexus was designed to get younger buyers into the granddaddy showrooms of Lexus, by putting it up against the BMW 3 series, Audi's A4, etc., Lexus officials told us that soooo many times. As I looked at the IS300, I kept saying to myself that I want a car that is origional, the IS isn't. To me it's still a little kid trying to compete with a bunch of men. It has still missed it's mark on BMW and Audi. But......the RX8 has has hit the Bimmer and Audi square in the A#@. Don't get me wrong I love the Bimmer 3 series, just that where I live, they are more common than rain water. But even though, I would take one of them over a Lexus IS. The Lexus it too trendy for my tastes, it's design is liveable, but not loveable, the interior gauges are a joke. I'll never forget talking to a Lexus representative when the car was first introduced and he said, " The IS300's gauges are race-inspired." C'mon you tell me what kind of racing cars gauges look like that. They were inspired from my Guess chronograph.
The RX8 is a well thought out and packaged vehicle. It had to be, or Mazda would sink into oblivion if it failed. When I first learned of the RX coming back, I was excited, but when I learned that it would have four doors, I was pissed, but as the car evolved I understood Mazda's thinking. It's a new way of looking at what a sports car is or what we think it should be. The Lexus is an OK car, considering it's first time out. I think when it's redesigned for 2004/05, Lexus would have made the car grown up. After all, you have to be original and not be so much of a copy cat. Mazda has too much talent to copy anyone.
That depends on what kind of car you want. As a matter of fact, I was just a my Lexus dealer yesterday looking at their stock of IS300s.
The question you need to ask yourself is, "Do you want a sports car that can seat four, or do you want a car that pretends to be sporty?" The RX-8 can outgun and out perform the IS is every aspect (Speaking of the 250 hp/6spd. of course, the lesser RX isn't much of a thought to me.) The Lexus was designed to get younger buyers into the granddaddy showrooms of Lexus, by putting it up against the BMW 3 series, Audi's A4, etc., Lexus officials told us that soooo many times. As I looked at the IS300, I kept saying to myself that I want a car that is origional, the IS isn't. To me it's still a little kid trying to compete with a bunch of men. It has still missed it's mark on BMW and Audi. But......the RX8 has has hit the Bimmer and Audi square in the A#@. Don't get me wrong I love the Bimmer 3 series, just that where I live, they are more common than rain water. But even though, I would take one of them over a Lexus IS. The Lexus it too trendy for my tastes, it's design is liveable, but not loveable, the interior gauges are a joke. I'll never forget talking to a Lexus representative when the car was first introduced and he said, " The IS300's gauges are race-inspired." C'mon you tell me what kind of racing cars gauges look like that. They were inspired from my Guess chronograph.
The RX8 is a well thought out and packaged vehicle. It had to be, or Mazda would sink into oblivion if it failed. When I first learned of the RX coming back, I was excited, but when I learned that it would have four doors, I was pissed, but as the car evolved I understood Mazda's thinking. It's a new way of looking at what a sports car is or what we think it should be. The Lexus is an OK car, considering it's first time out. I think when it's redesigned for 2004/05, Lexus would have made the car grown up. After all, you have to be original and not be so much of a copy cat. Mazda has too much talent to copy anyone.
Im new to this site and i just want to say this kid has no idea what he's talking about. i work for a mazda dealership, i drove the rx-8 long before you people even spotted one. the things that i can say about the rx-8 is that they are a great car. the automatic is slow. really slow. the power band takes for ever to kick in. long than the manual takes. yes i know that both version of the rx-8 suck of the line because of no power band. but anways moving on, i have to say i was looking for a new car and i stumbbled accross a deal i couldnt pass up. a lexus is300, i paid half of what you guys paid for yours. not only that this car has the toyota supra motor in it. and it doesnt have half the lag the rx-8 do. im not saying the car will beat it all around considering the rx-8 have wider tires. but i do know the lexus will beat it. without a doubt, going straight at least. but a simple rim and tire upgrade. it will beat the rx-8. i understand the the rx-8 will have good potential in the future with the speed version coming out and all the aftermarket companies making stuff for them. but remember that the is300 has the supra motor. its has more potential for after market.
to top this all off. i get way more girls checking me out in my car then i ever had while doing my pdi test drives. but this might not matter to you guys because im 20 years old.
Again this is my own opinion you do not have to take this to the heart. im saying my side because i know both cars very well, since i work on mazda myself and my father is a toyota master technician.
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wow, big deal if it has a N/A supra engine made in the 90s or watever.. didnt the old supra engine make at least 240? the IS only puts out 215, weighs more than the rx8, and is supposed to beat the rx in the straight line? well, dont want to flame this "kid" too much, but hardly doubt he works for a mazda dealership with a troll posting like this..