2011 Mazda 6 vs. 2003 Lexus IS
To start off, 2011 Mazda 6 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Lexus IS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Lexus IS would be higher. At 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Mazda 6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mazda 6 (170 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 2003 Lexus IS. (153 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mazda 6 should accelerate faster than 2003 Lexus IS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mazda 6 weights approximately 84 kg more than 2003 Lexus IS. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 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 2003 Lexus IS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Mazda 6, 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, 2011 Mazda 6 (226 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Lexus IS. (196 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2011 Mazda 6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Lexus IS.
Compare all specifications:
| 2011 Mazda 6 | 2003 Lexus IS | |
| Make | Mazda | Lexus |
| Model | 6 | IS |
| Year Released | 2011 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2500 cc | 1988 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 226 Nm | 196 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | 5-speed automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1484 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1839 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1471 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2789 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |
