2004 Mazda 3 vs. 2010 Lexus GS
To start off, 2010 Lexus GS is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mazda 3 would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2010 Lexus GS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Lexus GS (340 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 191 more horse power than 2004 Mazda 3. (149 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Lexus GS should accelerate faster than 2004 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Lexus GS weights approximately 90 kg more than 2004 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2010 Lexus GS 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 2010 Lexus GS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2010 Lexus GS (362 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 175 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda 3. (187 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2010 Lexus GS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mazda 3 | 2010 Lexus GS | |
| Make | Mazda | Lexus |
| Model | 3 | GS |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 149 HP | 340 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 187 Nm | 362 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | CVT |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1785 kg | 1875 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4844 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1821 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1425 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2850 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 65 L |
