2002 Lexus SC vs. 1998 Mazda 626
To start off, 2002 Lexus SC is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mazda 626. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mazda 626 would be higher. At 4,298 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Lexus SC is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Lexus SC (312 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 223 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 626. (89 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Lexus SC should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Lexus SC weights approximately 621 kg more than 1998 Mazda 626. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 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 2002 Lexus SC. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Mazda 626, 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, 2002 Lexus SC (447 Nm) has 302 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 626. (145 Nm). This means 2002 Lexus SC will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 626. 2002 Lexus SC has automatic transmission and 1998 Mazda 626 has manual transmission. 1998 Mazda 626 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Lexus SC will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Lexus SC | 1998 Mazda 626 | |
| Make | Lexus | Mazda |
| Model | SC | 626 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4298 cc | 1840 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 312 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 447 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1815 kg | 1194 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2620 mm |
