It's always hard to find unopininated responses in a specific board, but....
I was very interested in the IS300 when it first came out, I really held back because I didn't want an e-shift. I've never owned anything but manual transmissions in over 10 years.
After the 5 speed was available, I was interested in purchasing an IS.
I've owned 2 toyotas (truck, and corolla), 3 Mazda's (b2200, b4000 trucks, and '93 RX7), one honda (2000 Civic SI), and a Subaru ('99 Legacy GT).
I used to have an RX7 and loved that car.
I ultimately prefer handling prowess over power, but has anyone on this board driven an RX-8 that can provide some feedback?
Here's what I can gather or guess from articles.
Handling
RX-8 probably has better handling than an IS300.
Power
RX-8 on paper is faster, but you have to launch the car by dropping the clutch at 6000 plus RPM. Real world, IS300 has more torque and probably easier to live with day to day.
Rear seat room
A wash? I've heard that the IS300 has small rear seats. I've test driven an RX-8. The rear can actually hold a rear facing child seat no problem. Adults fine, for probably short trips.
Reliability
No question, Lexus has an upper hand here. I didn't have too many problems with my '93 RX-7, and I'm sure a N/A rotary will be better, but Lexus/Toyota quality unmatched.
Road noise
I'm assuming the Lexus wins here.
Safety
Have no idea here.
Styling
Out of the box, I give thumbs up to the RX-8. Although with aftermarket kits the IS is pretty sharp.
Trunk
Probably IS wins? RX-8 doesn't even have a spare tire, just an tire kit with fix a flat.
Fun Factor