2005 Lexus IS vs. 2008 Mazda 3
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Lexus IS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Lexus IS would be higher. At 2,261 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda 3 (256 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 103 more horse power than 2005 Lexus IS. (153 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2005 Lexus IS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Lexus IS weights approximately 21 kg more than 2008 Mazda 3.
Because 2005 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 2005 Lexus IS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Mazda 3 (380 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 185 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Lexus IS. (195 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Lexus IS.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Lexus IS | 2008 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Lexus | Mazda |
| Model | IS | 3 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1988 cc | 2261 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 256 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 195 Nm | 380 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 215 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.5 seconds | 6.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1506 kg | 1485 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.9 L/100km | 9.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
