1989 Lexus LS vs. 2004 Mazda 3
To start off, 2004 Mazda 3 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Lexus LS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Lexus LS would be higher. At 3,969 cc (8 cylinders), 1989 Lexus LS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Lexus LS (242 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 138 more horse power than 2004 Mazda 3. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Lexus LS should accelerate faster than 2004 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Lexus LS weights approximately 578 kg more than 2004 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 Lexus LS 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 1989 Lexus LS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Mazda 3, 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, 1989 Lexus LS (350 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda 3. (230 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 1989 Lexus LS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mazda 3. 1989 Lexus LS has automatic transmission and 2004 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2004 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1989 Lexus LS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Lexus LS | 2004 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Lexus | Mazda |
| Model | LS | 3 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3969 cc | 1595 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 242 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1818 kg | 1240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2820 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 55 L |
