2009 Lexus IS vs. 2006 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 Lexus IS is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Mazda 3 would be higher. At 4,969 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Lexus IS (416 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 308 more horse power than 2006 Mazda 3. (108 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Lexus IS weights approximately 440 kg more than 2006 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Lexus IS 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 IS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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 IS (503 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 263 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda 3. (240 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2009 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda 3. 2009 Lexus IS has automatic transmission and 2006 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2006 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Lexus IS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Lexus IS | 2006 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Lexus | Mazda |
| Model | IS | 3 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4969 cc | 1558 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 416 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 503 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5200 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.8:1 | 18.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 265 km/hour | 185 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 4.8 seconds | 11.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1700 kg | 1260 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.4 L/100km | 5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 55 L |
