2009 Lexus IS vs. 2012 Mazda MazdaSpeed3
To start off, 2012 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 Lexus IS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 Lexus IS would be higher. At 2,300 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 (263 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 88 more horse power than 2009 Lexus IS. (175 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 should accelerate faster than 2009 Lexus IS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Lexus IS weights approximately 172 kg more than 2012 Mazda MazdaSpeed3.
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, 2012 Mazda MazdaSpeed3, 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 (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda MazdaSpeed3. (379 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda MazdaSpeed3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Lexus IS | 2012 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 | |
| Make | Lexus | Mazda |
| Model | IS | MazdaSpeed3 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2231 cc | 2300 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 263 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 379 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1660 kg | 1488 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 4511 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1461 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 60 L |
