2002 Lexus IS 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 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 53 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 3. (148 HP @ 3500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Lexus IS weights approximately 75 kg more than 2009 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 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 2002 Lexus IS. 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 (360 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 64 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Lexus IS. (296 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Lexus IS. 2002 Lexus IS 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 IS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Lexus IS | 2009 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Lexus | Mazda |
| Model | IS | 3 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2999 cc | 2184 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 296 Nm | 360 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 16.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1540 kg | 1465 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 55 L |
