1973 Mazda RX-4 vs. 2006 Toyota Highlander
To start off, 2006 Toyota Highlander is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Mazda RX-4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Mazda RX-4 would be higher. At 3,310 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Toyota Highlander is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Toyota Highlander (215 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 101 more horse power than 1973 Mazda RX-4. (114 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Toyota Highlander should accelerate faster than 1973 Mazda RX-4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Toyota Highlander weights approximately 245 kg more than 1973 Mazda RX-4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 Mazda RX-4 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 1973 Mazda RX-4. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Toyota Highlander, 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, 2006 Toyota Highlander (302 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 137 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Mazda RX-4. (165 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Toyota Highlander will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Mazda RX-4.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Mazda RX-4 | 2006 Toyota Highlander | |
| Make | Mazda | Toyota |
| Model | RX-4 | Highlander |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Coupe | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2616 cc | 3310 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | V |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 302 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1110 kg | 1355 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1730 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2720 mm |
