2009 Lexus GS vs. 2004 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 Lexus GS is newer by 5 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 3,456 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Lexus GS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Lexus GS (303 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 154 more horse power than 2004 Mazda 3. (149 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Lexus GS should accelerate faster than 2004 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mazda 3 weights approximately 20 kg more than 2009 Lexus GS.
Because 2009 Lexus GS 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 2009 Lexus GS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2009 Lexus GS (372 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 185 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda 3. (187 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2009 Lexus GS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mazda 3. 2009 Lexus GS 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. 2009 Lexus GS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Lexus GS | 2004 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Lexus | Mazda |
| Model | GS | 3 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3456 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 303 HP | 149 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 372 Nm | 187 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 94 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.8:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| 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 | 1785 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4830 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 71 L | 55 L |
