1999 Lexus SC vs. 1997 Mazda MX-3
To start off, 1999 Lexus SC is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mazda MX-3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mazda MX-3 would be higher. At 2,997 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 Lexus SC is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Lexus SC (225 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 119 more horse power than 1997 Mazda MX-3. (106 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Lexus SC should accelerate faster than 1997 Mazda MX-3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Lexus SC weights approximately 416 kg more than 1997 Mazda MX-3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 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 1999 Lexus SC. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Mazda MX-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 SC (290 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 155 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mazda MX-3. (135 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1999 Lexus SC will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mazda MX-3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Lexus SC | 1997 Mazda MX-3 | |
| Make | Lexus | Mazda |
| Model | SC | MX-3 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2997 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 225 HP | 106 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 290 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1475 kg | 1059 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4230 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2460 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 65 L |
