2009 Lexus LS vs. 1998 Mazda 323
To start off, 2009 Lexus LS is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 4,608 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Lexus LS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Lexus LS (376 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 262 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (114 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Lexus LS should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Lexus LS weights approximately 498 kg more than 1998 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 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 2009 Lexus LS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Mazda 323, 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 LS (493 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 331 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (162 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Lexus LS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Lexus LS | 1998 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Lexus | Mazda |
| Model | LS | 323 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4608 cc | 1840 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 376 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 493 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 94 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1626 kg | 1128 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1470 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1880 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2980 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 84 L | 55 L |
