2005 Lexus IS vs. 2013 Mazda 3
To start off, 2013 Mazda 3 is newer by 8 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2013 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 153 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Lexus IS weights approximately 128 kg more than 2013 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, 2013 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, 2013 Mazda 3 (200 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Lexus IS. (195 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2013 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 | 2013 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Lexus | Mazda |
| Model | IS | 3 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1988 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 195 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 12.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1506 kg | 1378 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4595 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
