1998 Lexus GS vs. 2007 Mazda 3
To start off, 2007 Mazda 3 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Lexus GS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Lexus GS would be higher. At 2,995 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Lexus GS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mazda 3 (256 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1998 Lexus GS. (211 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1998 Lexus GS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Lexus GS weights approximately 174 kg more than 2007 Mazda 3.
Because 1998 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 1998 Lexus GS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 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, 2007 Mazda 3 (380 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 79 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Lexus GS. (301 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2007 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Lexus GS. 1998 Lexus GS has automatic transmission and 2007 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2007 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Lexus GS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Lexus GS | 2007 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Lexus | Mazda |
| Model | GS | 3 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2995 cc | 2261 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 211 HP | 256 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 301 Nm | 380 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 230 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1662 kg | 1488 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.4 L/100km | 9.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 55 L |
