2008 Lexus LS vs. 2012 Mazda 3
To start off, 2012 Mazda 3 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Lexus LS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Lexus LS would be higher. At 4,608 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Lexus LS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Lexus LS (380 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 276 more horse power than 2012 Mazda 3. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Lexus LS should accelerate faster than 2012 Mazda 3.
Because 2008 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 2008 Lexus LS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2008 Lexus LS (493 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 348 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda 3. (145 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2008 Lexus LS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda 3. 2008 Lexus LS has automatic transmission and 2012 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2012 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Lexus LS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Lexus LS | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Lexus | Mazda |
| Model | LS | 3 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4608 cc | 1560 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 380 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 493 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2980 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 84 L | 55 L |
