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I am looking forward to purchasing my first car and I have narrowed down my options to both the 2007 Mazda Verisa 2WD and the 2007 Toyota Ist (scion) 2WD both equipped with 1.5l 4 cylinder engines. However, all price factors held constant, I would like to learn more about the two models in terms of performance, (speed, power-weight ratio, acceleration and torque) fuel efficiency (in terms of kms/l) and reliability. I hear that Mazda vehicles are very durable and the parts seem to last a very long time. (I am hoping to keep the vehicle for close to 5 years). Lastly, which of the two vehicles is best suited for long distance journeys as well as city traffic driving?

These vehicles are close to identical when it comes to dimensions, power, torque, mass, power to weight ratio and fuel economy.

The major mechanical differences is the Toyota Ist will have a CVT transmission (from early 2007) whereas the Mazda Verisa is fitted with a conventional four-speed automatic transmission.

Performance and fuel economy on both vehicles are around 80kW/138Nm and 16km/L (6.0L/100km).

The Toyota and Mazda are both good choices but from a driver’s point of view and possible reliability issues the four-speed automatic fitted to the Verisa is more desirable than a CVT.

These vehicles are great for short trips and they will manage the longer trips with a bit of patience and some encouraging acceleration on the uphills. They wouldn't be the ideal family vehicles as interior spaciousness is limited.