1996 Lexus GS vs. 2011 Mazda 3
To start off, 2011 Mazda 3 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Lexus GS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Lexus GS would be higher. At 2,997 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Lexus GS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Lexus GS (205 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 2011 Mazda 3. (167 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Lexus GS should accelerate faster than 2011 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Lexus GS weights approximately 330 kg more than 2011 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Lexus GS 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 1996 Lexus GS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 1996 Lexus GS (275 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 47 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Mazda 3. (228 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 Lexus GS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Mazda 3. 1996 Lexus GS has automatic transmission and 2011 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2011 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Lexus GS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Lexus GS | 2011 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Lexus | Mazda |
| Model | GS | 3 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2997 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 205 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 275 Nm | 228 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1720 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4970 mm | 4506 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2639 mm |
