2002 Lexus IS vs. 2006 Mazda 3
To start off, 2006 Mazda 3 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Lexus IS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Lexus IS would be higher. At 2,999 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Lexus IS (201 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 2006 Mazda 3. (139 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Lexus IS weights approximately 406 kg more than 2006 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2002 Lexus IS (296 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 114 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda 3. (182 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2002 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda 3. 2002 Lexus IS has automatic transmission and 2006 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2006 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Lexus IS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Lexus IS | 2006 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Lexus | Mazda |
| Model | IS | 3 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2999 cc | 1998 cc |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 139 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 296 Nm | 182 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1540 kg | 1134 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 55 L |
