2002 Lexus GS vs. 2009 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Lexus GS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Lexus GS would be higher. At 2,997 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Lexus GS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 3 (256 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 2002 Lexus GS. (215 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2002 Lexus GS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Lexus GS weights approximately 175 kg more than 2009 Mazda 3.
Because 2002 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 2002 Lexus GS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Mazda 3 (380 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 84 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Lexus GS. (296 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Lexus GS. 2002 Lexus GS has automatic transmission and 2009 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2009 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Lexus GS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Lexus GS | 2009 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Lexus | Mazda |
| Model | GS | 3 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2997 cc | 2261 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 256 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 296 Nm | 380 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 87.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1660 kg | 1485 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4440 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 |
