2004 Lexus SC vs. 2000 Mazda Protege
To start off, 2004 Lexus SC is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2000 Mazda Protege. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2000 Mazda Protege would be higher. At 2,997 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Lexus SC is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Lexus SC (225 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 125 more horse power than 2000 Mazda Protege. (100 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Lexus SC should accelerate faster than 2000 Mazda Protege. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Mazda Protege weights approximately 310 kg more than 2004 Lexus SC.
Because 2004 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 2004 Lexus SC. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2000 Mazda Protege, 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, 2004 Lexus SC (290 Nm) has 126 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Mazda Protege. (164 Nm). This means 2004 Lexus SC will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Mazda Protege. 2000 Mazda Protege has automatic transmission and 2004 Lexus SC has manual transmission. 2004 Lexus SC will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2000 Mazda Protege will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Lexus SC | 2000 Mazda Protege | |
| Make | Lexus | Mazda |
| Model | SC | Protege |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2000 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2997 cc | 1839 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 225 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 290 Nm | 164 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 85.1 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1475 kg | 1785 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2680 mm |
