1996 Lexus SC vs. 2009 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Lexus SC. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Lexus SC would be higher. At 3,969 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Lexus SC is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Lexus SC (260 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 106 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 3. (154 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Lexus SC should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Lexus SC weights approximately 88 kg more than 2009 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Lexus SC 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 SC. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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 SC (370 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 167 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (203 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1996 Lexus SC will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 3. 1996 Lexus SC has automatic transmission and 2009 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2009 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Lexus SC will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Lexus SC | 2009 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Lexus | Mazda |
| Model | SC | 3 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3969 cc | 2260 cc |
| Horse Power | 260 HP | 154 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 370 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.5 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.4:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1638 kg | 1550 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 78 L | 55 L |
