2005 Lexus SC vs. 1997 Mazda 626
To start off, 2005 Lexus SC is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mazda 626. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mazda 626 would be higher. At 4,277 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Lexus SC is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Lexus SC (300 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 211 more horse power than 1997 Mazda 626. (89 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Lexus SC should accelerate faster than 1997 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Lexus SC weights approximately 552 kg more than 1997 Mazda 626. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 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 2005 Lexus SC. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Mazda 626, 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 SC (442 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 297 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mazda 626. (145 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2005 Lexus SC will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mazda 626.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Lexus SC | 1997 Mazda 626 | |
| Make | Lexus | Mazda |
| Model | SC | 626 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4277 cc | 1840 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 300 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 442 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1742 kg | 1190 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2620 mm |
