1987 Mazda 626 vs. 2011 Toyota Highlander
To start off, 2011 Toyota Highlander is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Mazda 626. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Mazda 626 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 181 more horse power than 1987 Mazda 626. (89 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Toyota Highlander should accelerate faster than 1987 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Toyota Highlander weights approximately 810 kg more than 1987 Mazda 626. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 202 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Mazda 626. (134 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2011 Toyota Highlander will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Mazda 626. 2011 Toyota Highlander has automatic transmission and 1987 Mazda 626 has manual transmission. 1987 Mazda 626 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Toyota Highlander will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Mazda 626 | 2011 Toyota Highlander | |
| Make | Mazda | Toyota |
| Model | 626 | Highlander |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1789 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 270 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 134 Nm | 336 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 1930 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4785 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2789 mm |
