2005 Lexus IS vs. 2012 Mazda 3
To start off, 2012 Mazda 3 is newer by 7 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 2,999 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Lexus IS (201 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 97 more horse power than 2012 Mazda 3. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 2012 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, 2012 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, 2005 Lexus IS (310 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 165 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda 3. (145 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2005 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda 3. 2005 Lexus IS has automatic transmission and 2012 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2012 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Lexus IS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2005 Lexus IS | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
Make | Lexus | Mazda |
Model | IS | 3 |
Year Released | 2005 | 2012 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2999 cc | 1560 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 201 HP | 104 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 310 Nm | 145 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | 5-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4590 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1755 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1471 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2639 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 55 L |