2003 Lexus LS vs. 2009 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Lexus LS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Lexus LS would be higher. At 4,293 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Lexus LS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Lexus LS (282 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 178 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 3. (104 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Lexus LS should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Lexus LS weights approximately 745 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 2003 Lexus LS 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 2003 Lexus LS. 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, 2003 Lexus LS (418 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 273 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Lexus LS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Lexus LS | 2009 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Lexus | Mazda |
| Model | LS | 3 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4293 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 282 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 418 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 91 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.5 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 185 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.3 seconds | 11 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1830 kg | 1085 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5010 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2930 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 84 L | 55 L |
