1999 Lexus IS vs. 2005 Mazda 3
To start off, 2005 Mazda 3 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Lexus IS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Lexus IS would be higher. At 1,988 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Lexus IS (153 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 2005 Mazda 3. (104 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 2005 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Lexus IS weights approximately 55 kg more than 2005 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 Lexus IS 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 1999 Lexus IS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 1999 Lexus IS (195 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda 3. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1999 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mazda 3. 2005 Mazda 3 has automatic transmission and 1999 Lexus IS has manual transmission. 1999 Lexus IS will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Mazda 3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Lexus IS | 2005 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Lexus | Mazda |
| Model | IS | 3 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1988 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 195 Nm | 146 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1400 kg | 1345 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
