2009 Lexus RX vs. 2012 Mazda 3
To start off, 2012 Mazda 3 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 Lexus RX. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 Lexus RX would be higher. At 3,456 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Lexus RX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Lexus RX (273 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 125 more horse power than 2012 Mazda 3. (148 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Lexus RX should accelerate faster than 2012 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Lexus RX weights approximately 535 kg more than 2012 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Lexus RX is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 Mazda 3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Lexus RX will offer significantly more control. 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 RX (342 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 159 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda 3. (183 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2009 Lexus RX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Lexus RX | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Lexus | Mazda |
| Model | RX | 3 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2012 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3456 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 273 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 342 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4700 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 5-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1835 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4750 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 72 L | 55 L |
