2006 Lexus IS vs. 2007 Mazda 3
To start off, 2007 Mazda 3 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Lexus IS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Lexus IS would be higher. At 3,441 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Lexus IS (306 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 158 more horse power than 2007 Mazda 3. (148 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 2007 Mazda 3.
Because 2006 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 2006 Lexus IS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 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, 2006 Lexus IS (376 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 193 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Mazda 3. (183 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2006 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Lexus IS | 2007 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Lexus | Mazda |
| Model | IS | 3 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3441 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 306 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 376 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 8.6 L/100km | 6.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 11.4 L/100km | 8.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10 L/100km | 7.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 55 L |
