2006 Lexus RX vs. 2004 Mazda 3
To start off, 2006 Lexus RX is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mazda 3 would be higher. At 3,314 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Lexus RX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Lexus RX (226 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 77 more horse power than 2004 Mazda 3. (149 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Lexus RX should accelerate faster than 2004 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mazda 3 weights approximately 245 kg more than 2006 Lexus RX.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear 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 RX (323 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 136 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda 3. (187 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2006 Lexus RX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mazda 3. 2006 Lexus RX has automatic transmission and 2004 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2004 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Lexus RX will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Lexus RX | 2004 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Lexus | Mazda |
| Model | RX | 3 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2004 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3314 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 226 HP | 149 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 323 Nm | 187 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 91.9 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 180 km/hour | 200 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1540 kg | 1785 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1690 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 55 L |
