2006 Lexus IS vs. 1974 Mazda RX-3
To start off, 2006 Lexus IS is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Mazda RX-3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Mazda RX-3 would be higher. At 1,988 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Lexus IS (153 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1974 Mazda RX-3. (100 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 1974 Mazda RX-3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Lexus IS weights approximately 655 kg more than 1974 Mazda RX-3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2006 Lexus IS (195 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Mazda RX-3. (135 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Mazda RX-3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Lexus IS | 1974 Mazda RX-3 | |
| Make | Lexus | Mazda |
| Model | IS | RX-3 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1988 cc | 1962 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 195 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1505 kg | 850 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2320 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 65 L |
