1996 Mazda MX-3 vs. 2006 Toyota Highlander
To start off, 2006 Toyota Highlander is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mazda MX-3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mazda MX-3 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 109 more horse power than 1996 Mazda MX-3. (106 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Toyota Highlander should accelerate faster than 1996 Mazda MX-3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Toyota Highlander weights approximately 196 kg more than 1996 Mazda MX-3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Toyota Highlander is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Mazda MX-3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Toyota Highlander 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, 2006 Toyota Highlander (301 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 167 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mazda MX-3. (134 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2006 Toyota Highlander will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mazda MX-3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mazda MX-3 | 2006 Toyota Highlander | |
| Make | Mazda | Toyota |
| Model | MX-3 | Highlander |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 3310 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 106 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 134 Nm | 301 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1059 kg | 1255 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 4700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 72 L |
