2009 Lexus IS vs. 2003 Mazda 6
To start off, 2009 Lexus IS is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mazda 6. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mazda 6 would be higher. At 2,499 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Lexus IS (204 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 2003 Mazda 6. (160 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda 6. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Lexus IS weights approximately 160 kg more than 2003 Mazda 6. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are four wheel drive (4WD) - it offers better handling, traction, and control in all driving conditions compared with front wheel drive or 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, 2009 Lexus IS (251 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda 6. (205 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda 6.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Lexus IS | 2003 Mazda 6 | |
| Make | Lexus | Mazda |
| Model | IS | 6 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2499 cc | 2261 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 204 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 251 Nm | 205 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1765 kg | 1605 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 62 L |
