2006 Lexus LS vs. 2009 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Lexus LS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Lexus LS would be higher. At 4,294 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Lexus LS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Lexus LS (278 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 174 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 3. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Lexus LS should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Lexus LS weights approximately 573 kg more than 2009 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Lexus LS 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 LS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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 LS (423 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 278 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Lexus LS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 3. 2006 Lexus LS has automatic transmission and 2009 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2009 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Lexus LS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Lexus LS | 2009 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Lexus | Mazda |
| Model | LS | 3 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4294 cc | 1598 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 278 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 423 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 91.1 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.5 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.3 seconds | 12.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1765 kg | 1192 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5020 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2930 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.2 L/100km | 9.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 84 L | 55 L |
