1997 Lexus SC vs. 2012 Mazda 3
To start off, 2012 Mazda 3 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Lexus SC. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Lexus SC would be higher. At 3,969 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Lexus SC is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Lexus SC (242 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 2012 Mazda 3. (167 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Lexus SC should accelerate faster than 2012 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Lexus SC weights approximately 167 kg more than 2012 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 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 1997 Lexus SC. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 1997 Lexus SC (365 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 137 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda 3. (228 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Lexus SC will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Lexus SC | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
Make | Lexus | Mazda |
Model | SC | 3 |
Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3969 cc | 2500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 242 HP | 167 HP |
Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 365 Nm | 228 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 1383 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4506 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1755 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1471 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2639 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 60 L |