1998 Lexus SC vs. 2011 Mazda 3
To start off, 2011 Mazda 3 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Lexus SC. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Lexus SC would be higher. At 2,997 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Lexus SC is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Lexus SC (225 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 77 more horse power than 2011 Mazda 3. (148 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Lexus SC should accelerate faster than 2011 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Lexus SC weights approximately 178 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 1998 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 1998 Lexus SC. 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, 1998 Lexus SC (290 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 107 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Mazda 3. (183 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1998 Lexus SC will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Lexus SC | 2011 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Lexus | Mazda |
| Model | SC | 3 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2997 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 225 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 290 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1475 kg | 1297 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2639 mm |
