1978 Mazda 818 vs. 2011 Toyota Highlander

To start off, 2011 Toyota Highlander is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mazda 818. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mazda 818 would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Toyota Highlander is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Toyota Highlander (270 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 202 more horse power than 1978 Mazda 818. (68 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Toyota Highlander should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda 818. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Toyota Highlander weights approximately 930 kg more than 1978 Mazda 818. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1978 Mazda 818 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 1978 Mazda 818. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 2011 Toyota Highlander (336 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 244 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda 818. (92 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2011 Toyota Highlander will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda 818.

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