2006 Lexus SC vs. 2005 Mazda 3
To start off, 2006 Lexus SC is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Mazda 3 would be higher. At 4,277 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Lexus SC is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Lexus SC (288 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 184 more horse power than 2005 Mazda 3. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Lexus SC should accelerate faster than 2005 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Lexus SC weights approximately 407 kg more than 2005 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 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 2006 Lexus SC. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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 SC (431 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 283 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda 3. (148 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Lexus SC will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Lexus SC | 2005 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Lexus | Mazda |
| Model | SC | 3 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4277 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 288 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 431 Nm | 148 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1547 kg | 1140 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Consumption City | 12.4 L/100km | 9.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.2 L/100km | 7.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 55 L |
